Obsidian

From The unofficial Dark Sun wiki

Obsidian is a volcanic glass stone that is found in obsidian flows, formed when moving lava cools or freezes rapidly.

While pure obsidian is usually dark in appearance, the colour varies depending on the presence of impurities. It can range from dark green to brown to black to nearly clear in colour. In some stones, the inclusion of small, white crystals produce a beautiful snowflake pattern. Obsidian may also contain patterns of gas bubbles (snowflake obsidian). It may contain interesting patterns of gas bubbles trapped as the molten rock cooled down.

When obsidian is cut, the broken surface has many shell-like contours that curve or bulge in and out.

[edit] Uses

Obsidian is highly valued in Athas, because, like flint, it can be fractured to produce very thin and sharp blades and arrowheads. It can also be polished to create mirrors. Obsidian can be carved and worked to create tools or decorative objects.

Obsidian can be used to create lenses through which psionic powers can be focused. Many of Rajaat's champions used obsidian spheres to absorb and trap the souls of their designated race.

[edit] See also

• Macuahuitl, a type of obsidian sword