In this post, we reveal everything you need to know about mahogany and red obsidian, including its meaning, properties, and value. Let's get started!

Introduction

Red and black obsidian top the charts in a lot of energetic healing work that goes on around the world. It usually takes the recommendation of a professional for crystal enthusiasts to bring one of these stones home, so we’re going to tell you why you need to get on this investment ASAP!

In this article we discuss the following:

• Mahogany Obsidian Meaning
• What is Mahogany Obsidian
• Is Mahogany Obsidian the Same as Red Obsidian?
• Mahogany Obsidian vs Brecciated Jasper
• Mahogany Obsidian Properties
• Mahogany Obsidian Metaphysical Properties
• Mahogany Obsidian Healing Properties
• Sleeping with Mahogany Obsidian
• Mahogany Obsidian Zodiac
• Mahogany Obsidian Chakra
• Mahogany Obsidian Value
• Where is Mahogany Obsidian Found
• How to Cleanse Mahogany Obsidian
• Types of Mahogany/Red Obsidian
• Blood Red Obsidian
• Red Snowflake Obsidian
• Red Ribbon Obsidian
• Red Obsidian Raw
• Mahogany Obsidian Needles
• Historic Uses of Mahogany/Red Obsidian
• Mahogany Obsidian Arrowhead
• Red/Mahogany Obsidian Jewelry
• Mahogany Obsidian Bracelet
• Mahogany Obsidian Beads
• Mahogany Obsidian Necklace

Mahogany Obsidian Meaning

What is Mahogany Obsidian 

Mahogany obsidian, also known as red obsidian stone or mountain mahogany, is a form of natural obsidian glass that happens to go slightly red when there are inclusions of iron within the crystalline formation. 

With regards to mahogany obsidian stone meaning: these stones can be found anywhere where volcanic activity has been prevalent sometime in the last 5000 years. Given the ebb and flow of the Earth, this is a relatively common stone as a result of the amount of this kind of natural activity that takes place in different parts of the planet. 

Mahogany obsidian is rarely solid red; instead, it usually features swirls and stripes throughout the obsidian body, which may be easier to see when held up to the light. Some describe it as a red and black Dalmatian-looking stone, due to the very clear mottled effect of the patterns. 

Others argue that mahogany obsidian is more of a sandy brown than a red; however, these stones were named after the red sand seen in some deserts of the world, so it does make sense that they are not the red we’ve come to usually associate with crystals. 

Is Mahogany Obsidian the Same as Red Obsidian? 

Yes, indeed: mahogany obsidian and red obsidian are two names for the same thing. As mentioned above, red obsidian crystal also goes by the name ‘mountain mahogany’ in some parts of the world. 

It’s not only iron that can create red obsidian rock. Hematite and magnetite inclusions are believed to offer the same red and black bands within existing obsidian stone. However, because iron is a much more common mineral in the Earth’s crust, it’s usually this one that ends up forming most of the red obsidian we enjoy today. 

Mahogany Obsidian vs Brecciated Jasper 

Mahogany obsidian looks like brecciated jasper — we know!

The two bear such uncanny resemblance, in fact, that it can sometimes be impossible for even experts to tell them apart. Brecciated jasper occurs when regular jasper stone is exposed to hematite during formation. 

Some say that the patterns formed by brecciated jasper look like poppies, and thus they can be told apart from mahogany obsidian in this way. There is some truth to this, but not enough to rely on it for all forms of these stones. 

The word ‘brecciated’ refers to angular fragments being cemented together, creating an appearance of breccia. Essentially, these are separate pieces of rock that have repeatedly been shattered and cemented back together due to seismic activity beneath the Earth’s surface. It’s quite a journey for this crystal to come into solid existence!

Mahogany Obsidian Properties

Mahogany Obsidian Metaphysical Properties 

One of the most notable properties of red obsidian is how it facilitates personal growth. The stone works to bring all thoughts and ideas into fruition, with the intent that they might drive the user forward in life and cause them to take expansive action. 

In your time of need, mahogany obsidian can offer strength, as well as tension relief. Reclaiming your power is an important part of healing, and this is a stone to keep close by as you learn to do so. 

The mahogany obsidian spiritual meaning is really centered around the removal of blockages, especially those that are self-imposed and lodged deep in your subconscious mind. These are the ones that hold you back in real time; these are the ones that need to be addressed if you ever want longstanding change to occur in the physical. 

You can also use mahogany obsidian to stabilize a weak aura. 

Mahogany Obsidian Healing Properties 

This crystal is considered to be a natural healer. Mahogany obsidian healing occurs throughout the physical body, and addresses a variety of different ailments along the way. 

Many claim that one of the most valuable healing properties of mahogany obsidian is the way in which it strengthens the kidneys, the liver and all other lower organs. Some energetic healers will use this stone as a tool for detoxification, as well as to reduce any physical tension that a client may be struggling with. 

Professional athletes can gain a lot by keeping a piece of this crystal near to them at all times. The result being less water retention, a decline in the tendency to become stiff, and support of the organs when overheating or under-hydrating. 

Some users have found that laying flat, with the stone placed on a selected region, will work to pull toxins right out of that area and dissolve them into thin air. 

Sleeping with Mahogany Obsidian

When reading about red mahogany obsidian stones online, you’ll often find it being referred to as the best crystal to keep under your pillow while sleeping. Why is this?

Mahogany obsidian has one last property that seems to really be helping a lot of people. The crystalline structure of the stone is naturally protective, in ways that other crystals are not, but this is particularly true for psychic or energetic attacks. 

If you feel these things are happening to you as you slumber, and it's actively affecting your waking state, then you need a crystal that can help you. Mahogany obsidian is naturally more gentle than regular obsidian, which is why it can be kept so close to the head for hours on end. 

Keeping it under your pillow each evening will give you the strength to ward off any energetic attacks that take place when you’re in your most vulnerable state. You’ll be able to actively send away the negative energies, maintaining your turf and not floundering under the perceived fear of it all. 

Mahogany Obsidian Zodiac 

On the zodiac, mahogany obsidian crystal is closely associated with the signs of Libra and Sagittarius. Those born under these signs may find that they connect quite deeply to these stones for no apparent reason. 

Mahogany obsidian makes for a great gift to anyone born under these zodiac signs, however that is not to say that all other individuals can’t greatly benefit from work with this crystal, too. 

With regards to the elements, mahogany obsidian is connected to the element of Earth. It is said that this stone vibrates with the numbers 1 and 4, making it an incredibly emotional stone that can work against existing trauma or emotional wounds. 

Mahogany Obsidian Chakra 

Red and black crystals tend to be closely linked to the root chakra, which is that energy center that exists within red ray energy. It is from this energetic hub that we experience our sense of grounding and connectedness to the Earth, which is why it makes sense that mahogany obsidian is an Earth element ally. 

In addition to the root chakra, mahogany obsidian is also deeply concerned with the sacral chakra. In reality, this stone actually activates all three of the lower chakras in the human body, working toward the stimulation of passion, creativity, sexuality and self-protection. 

To work with a chakra directly, simply lay flat on your back and place the stone over your desired energetic region. Allow the frequency of the stone to stimulate the frequency of the chakra, and in the process it will be opened and cleansed. 

Keeping the lower chakras activated is one of the most important things a being can do to stay in optimal health and wellness while in the physical plane. They are a lifeline, essentially, and what keep us from drifting off into the clouds as we go about our days. 

Mahogany Obsidian Value

Even though it doesn’t occur as abundantly as black obsidian, red obsidian’s value is nearly on par with its darker counterpart. 

As you navigate the market, you can expect to find smaller, tumbled stones of red obsidian being sold for around $10. If these have been set into jewelry, the cost will be much higher, with some pieces selling for over $50. 

Finding raw mahogany obsidian, being sold in generous sizes, is unlikely, and if you did come across one you could expect to pay around $30 or more just to take it home. Bulk quantities of mahogany obsidian are far more likely to come in the form of a packet of individual, smaller stones. These bags can sell for upward of $25 a pop.

Beads made from offcuts or discarded mahogany obsidian may sell for around $10 for a pack of five. You can DIY your own crystal jewelry with these, or simply keep them as part of your crystal collection. 

Where is Mahogany Obsidian Found

Like regular obsidian, mahogany obsidian requires volcanic activity in order to form. This means that there are very distinct parts of the planet where this stone is likely to be found, but at the same time it spans a vast number of countries and continents.

Usually, mahogany obsidian is found by accident, as existing deposits of black obsidian are explored and mined more deeply. Mining mahogany obsidian in rough form is relatively easy, once it is spotted. 

The most abundant deposits for mahogany obsidian currently exist in Japan, Afghanistan, Mexico, Brazil and the United States of America. Interestingly, this is not a common stone on the African continent. 

It is likely that there are still massive deposits of red obsidian yet to be uncovered in many parts of the world. 

How to Cleanse Mahogany Obsidian

Mahogany obsidian stone doesn’t have the ability to self-cleanse, so you’ll need to take the time to cleanse and recharge the stone at least once a month. This way, you’ll always have it working for you in optimal condition. 

Technically, obsidian stones are water-safe crystals, but there are some conditions. If exposed to extreme hot or cold water, they do have the potential to break. When using the cleansing methods that involve water, be very careful to keep it at room temperature. 

Here’s how to cleanse mahogany obsidian:

• Hold your stone under running water for a solid minute, and then towel dry.
• Meditate over your stones, setting the intention for cleansing with your mind’s eye. 
• Place your mahogany obsidian under the light of the full moon, and leave it overnight. 
• Make a saltwater solution, and submerge your stone in it for up to 24 hours. 
• Bury your crystal in the garden and leave it here for up to 48 hours. 
• In the event of a rainstorm, place the stone under the showers. 
• Burn incense or herbs over mahogany obsidian to cleanse and recharge it. 

Types of Mahogany/Red Obsidian

Blood Red Obsidian 

Sometimes, mahogany obsidian occurs in a bright red ray energy: a red that is far more luminous than that of its darker counterparts. 

This kind of obsidian is given the street name ‘blood obsidian’, as the shade looks a lot like that which runs through our veins. It can occur like a translucent red glass, though occasionally it may require holding up to light before the vibrant red shines through. 

Red Snowflake Obsidian 

Snowflake obsidian is a stone that occurs when black obsidian comes into contact with cristobalite. The result is a mottled, white pattern across the crystal body, and usually they are in the shape of tiny snowflakes. 

Typically, this is a purely black and white stone, but sometimes it occurs within the red ray energy as well. If the conditions are right, and snowflake obsidian is in contact with iron particles during formation, the result may be a mottled red, black and white crystal. 

Red Ribbon Obsidian 

In certain obsidian deposits, the red inclusions occur in band-like structures that make distinct layers and lines throughout the stone. 

When held up to the light, one will be able to clearly see the individual bands of various shades of black and red. They might be more accurately described as streaks. 

This form of obsidian is a lot more glass-like than other forms of red obsidian. 

Red Obsidian Raw 

Raw red obsidian will likely be found in quite large-sized slices, anywhere from palm-sized to bigger than a human head. 

When raw, red obsidian takes on that desert, sandy color that would arguably be considered brown were it to occur in any other crystal. When observing the facade of the stone, you’ll notice the scattered black increments within. 

When red obsidian is raw, there appears to be a lot more red body than black. When it is cut down and tumbled, it reveals a more prominent black structure, with minimal red. It is unclear as to why some manufacturers opt to do this to the stones, though it likely has something to do with a universal belief that black in crystals is more aesthetically appealing. 

Mahogany Obsidian Needles 

Mahogany obsidian gemstones were long used by native tribes for a variety of purposes. Today, we have the remnants of these stones in their different forms, which gives us a peek into the lives that people were living at the time of use. 

Mahogany obsidian is often found in what seem to be splinter-like formations. The best guess was that tribes would actually use them as needles, which were not always for sewing but for a myriad of uses, including medical.

These needles are easily made by shaving down obsidian and chipping away until the desired point is achieved. You may be able to purchase some of these age old tools on Ebay or other e-commerce platforms, though expect to pay a pretty penny. 

Historic Uses of Mahogany/Red Obsidian

As discussed in the aforementioned paragraph, mahogany obsidian has been part of the human experience for centuries. The natives were not the last people to find uses from this versatile stone, and there is evidence to suggest that red obsidian had its place in Ancient Egypt, and even Ancient China. 

Mahogany Obsidian Arrowhead 

In addition to the needles, Native Americans made use of both red and black obsidian to fashion their arrowheads. These were used on spears and weapons for both hunting and self defense. 

There was definitely a sense of fashion in these times, too. A lot of aboriginals would wear arrowheads around their necks, possibly to always have one nearby, and possibly just because they liked how they look.

The trend lives on and, today, obsidian arrowheads are still sold worldwide to jewelry makers and style enthusiasts. Having one of these tools dangling around your neck is definitely unique, and a conversation starter at the best of times. 

Red/Mahogany Obsidian Jewelry

Mahogany Obsidian Bracelet 

One of the best ways to enjoy the benefits of crystal healing is to have the stone on your person as often as possible. Jewelry makes this easy, as you can adorn yourself and then totally forget about it, leaving the crystal to do its job in peace. 

If you are seeking physical healing benefits from a particular stone, it is always a good idea to wear it on your wrist. The wrists are the most direct pathway into the blood, and thus the rest of the body. 

A red obsidian bracelet will cling to you day in and day out, delivering the physical healing properties that we mentioned earlier. If you are an athlete, red obsidian is a great bracelet to wear as you train, working to pull toxins and support your organs during strain. 

Mahogany Obsidian Beads 

Red obsidian in bead form is something you are very likely to find when looking to invest in this particular stone. It’s the most affordable way to enjoy red obsidian as jewelry, although you will have to put the pieces together yourself. 

Red obsidian beads can be used to make bracelets, necklaces, earrings and nifty keychains. People often overlook the power of a crystal keychain, not realizing that they come into contact with these stones a lot more often than they think. 

With beads, you’re also likely to find mahogany obsidian raw, which is uncommon for existing jewelry!

Mahogany Obsidian Necklace 

Despite working very closely with the lower chakras, there is still great benefit in wearing red obsidian close to the heart. Necklaces sit in the mid-section of the human energy field, offering benefit to both the northern and southern hemispheres. 

If general balance and spiritual properties are what you seek from this stone, it would be a good idea to wear it around the neck. This way, it is directly between the upper chakras, which are those associated with the spiritual planes, and the lower chakras.

Consider gifting a mahogany obsidian necklace to newborn babies during Libra or Sagittarius seasons. 

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this article! If you are interested in incorporating crystals into your life to help combat anxiety, you should consider a mindful breathing necklace made of a crystal that resonates with you. Mindful breathing jewelry made of crystals not only help provide the benefits of the crystal you choose to wear, but they can also be used to help slow your breath, leading to a greater sense of calm and serenity. Also, if you are interested in reading more about anxiety and crystals, check out our comprehensive blog post on the 13 Best Crystals for Depression!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles: Green Obsidian: Complete Guide and Yellow Obsidian: Complete Guide

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