Quick Specs
- Material: natural black obsidian (volcanic glass)
- Diameter: 3 inches
- Thickness: 1/4 inch
- Finish: polished mirror surface
- Note: natural imperfections are expected and normal
The Personal Practice Mirror
Black obsidian is volcanic glass, formed when lava cools so rapidly that no crystalline structure has time to develop. The result is a naturally amorphous material with a Mohs hardness of around 5 to 5.5, a conchoidal fracture pattern, and a surface that, once polished, produces a true mirror finish. I carry obsidian scrying mirrors because the material has a long, well-documented history in reflective divination, from Aztec tezcatl mirrors made of this same volcanic glass to the speculum used by Elizabethan occultists. It is not a novelty.
This 3 inch disc sits at the personal practice point in my range of four sizes. It is larger and more usable than the 2 inch pocket mirror, which is really meant for carrying. It is more intimate than the 5 inch and 8 inch pieces, which work better as altar centerpieces or for group settings. At 3 inches, this mirror fits in a crystal bag or a small travel kit and is substantial enough to use comfortably in a seated meditation or a regular solo session. If you want something you can take with you without it dominating your bag, this is the size.
Because this is natural volcanic glass and not a synthetic product, every piece carries its own character. You may notice slight surface variations, tiny inclusions, or a faint sheen that shifts in different lighting. That is the stone, not a defect. The polished face is what you are working with, and it will be consistent and clear.
How to Use a Black Obsidian Scrying Mirror
Use this three-step method to start a black obsidian scrying session.
- Set the space
Dim the lights and sit comfortably with the mirror flat on a surface or held in both hands. Take a few slow breaths to settle your mind before you begin. The goal is a soft, unfocused gaze, not a hard stare at the glass.
- Fix your gaze
Look at the surface of the mirror with soft eyes, letting your focus blur slightly as you breathe. You are not looking for anything specific yet. Let the deep black draw your attention inward rather than outward to the room.
- Hold your question
Form a clear, single question or intention before you begin, and let it rest in the back of your mind as you gaze. Do not force images. Notice whatever arises, whether visual, emotional, or intuitive, and let it pass.
The Tarot Fellow Standard
I stock this mirror because the supplier I use has been consistent on two things that matter for obsidian: the finish quality and the sizing accuracy. A scrying mirror that is supposed to be 3 inches and arrives at 2.6 inches, or that has a hazy polish, is not useful. Every batch I have received has been properly sized and the mirror face has been clean and well-polished. That is a low bar in theory and a surprisingly high one in practice.
One honest note: obsidian is volcanic glass, not a mineral crystal, so it has no cleavage planes but it does chip if dropped on a hard surface. The edges of this disc are smooth but not protected by any frame. Store it in a cloth bag or pouch when it is not in use. If you are looking for a carrying pouch, browse my crystal bags and pouches or explore the full range of scrying and divination tools in my shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the personal practice size in my range. Larger than the 2 inch pocket mirror and easier to use in a seated session, but compact enough for a travel altar, bedside table, or crystal bag. Most practitioners find it the most versatile option.
Pass it through incense smoke, set it under moonlight, or place it on a selenite slab overnight. Avoid prolonged water exposure since obsidian is volcanic glass and the polished surface can be damaged by harsh cleaners.
Natural black obsidian forms from rapidly cooling volcanic lava, so minor inclusions, tiny bubbles, or slight sheen variations are part of the stone's character. They don't affect the mirror's function at all.
Yes. The 3 inch size is a good starting point for anyone moving beyond a pocket mirror. Keep sessions short at first, around five to ten minutes, and work in low light. Patience and a quiet mind matter more than experience.
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