Obsidian is a volcanic glass formed when hot lava is rapidly cooled. The rapid cooling leaves no time for a defined crystalline structure to form. Rather, the glassy material formed is thin and smooth. Therefore, obsidian takes a sharp edge and can be used as a knife. Obsidian has become rare these days and it attracts a high price. Like all sharp objects, it can become dull and will then need to be sharpened.
Instructions
1. Turn the coarse side up and wet the surface with a little oil. You can place the stone in a holder so that it stays still during sharpening.
2. Position the obsidian blade horizontally on the coarse face of the sharpening stone. Hold it down gently but firmly at the tip with two fingers while grabbing the handle of the obsidian in your other hand.
3. Pass the obsidian repeatedly over the surface of the sharpening stone. To run it across the stone, turn the obsidian slightly at a small inward angle then move it back and forth, following the curve of the blade.
4. Flip over the obsidian to the other side and repeat the sharpening process. If you'd rather avoid the sharp edge of the knife altogether, sharpen the obsidian by running the along its length while holding the knife vertically with its tip planted solidly on a surface.
Tags: sharpening stone, sharp edge