Reversible Silver Sheen Obsidian Sun & Moon Pendant – Sterling Silver Ben & Bryant Collection
At first glance, the stone appears deep and shadowy, but when the light moves across its surface, the silver sheen of the obsidian reveals a soft metallic glow hidden within the volcanic glass. Ben cut this cabochon to showcase the stone’s natural reflective bands, where subtle silver waves glide across the dark surface like moonlight moving over still water.
Silver sheen obsidian forms when molten lava cools rapidly, and tiny gas bubbles become trapped between thin layers of volcanic glass. As light passes through the layers, it reflects off these microscopic bubbles, producing the signature silky sheen that gives the stone its name. Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass created when lava cools so quickly that crystals cannot form, locking the molten structure in place.
Most silver sheen obsidian is found in regions with past volcanic activity such as Mexico, Japan, and Afghanistan. We bought this one in Tucson and are not exactly sure of its particular origin. The reflective quality of obsidian made it highly valued in ancient cultures. The Aztecs famously polished obsidian into mirrors, using the stone’s reflective surface for ceremonial objects and tools.
This pendant was designed as a reversible “Midnight Sun and Moon” piece. One side features the radiant sun-inspired silver frame surrounding the shimmering obsidian, while the reverse side reveals a sculptural moon design with layered three-dimensional textures that echo the rugged surface of a lunar landscape.
The stone is set in solid .925 sterling silver, hand-crafted in Texas by geologist and lapidary artist Ben Davis with master silversmith Randy Bryant. (They are both Pink Floyd fans)
Each piece in the Ben & Bryant Collection celebrates geology, craftsmanship, and the beauty of natural stone.
Details
• Stone: Silver Sheen Obsidian
• Origin: Mexico, Japan, or Afghanistan
• Geology: Obsidian is volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly; the silver sheen is created by microscopic gas bubbles trapped between layers of glass
• Metal: Solid .925 sterling silver
• Crafted By: Geologist and lapidary artist Ben Davis with master silversmith Randy Bryant
• Made In: Texas, USA
• Design: Reversible Midnight Sun / Moon pendant with sculptural textured silver reverse
• One of a Kind: Natural volcanic glass with unique sheen patterns
• Included: Arrives with a soft suede jewelry bag and a sterling silver polishing cloth for storage and care