This is a set of hand dug and gathered Davis Creek obsidian needles which are natural formations from California. These needles are very gemmy and have been cleaned. Longest obsidian needle of this set measures 3.70 inches long by 0.43 inches wide. 

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed as an extrusive igneous rock that is created when certain types of lava cool very quickly above ground. It is an actual glass which is only formed naturally. Obsidian is not uncommon but naturally occurring needle shapes are rare. The lava flow that produced these needles was very pure and made glass of an exceptional quality in the colors of black and brick reddish brown. There are many theories about how the needles are formed but the one most favored by rockhounds is credited to a geologist from Humboldt University some twenty-five years ago which was that the needles were formed when an already existing obsidian flow was bisected by a fault line. The resulting earth movement flaked the rock along a parallel axis at 90 degrees, the result being the obsidian fracturing into needles. Some absurd assumptions are made about these obsidian needles one is that the needles form when molten lava strands are shot via volcanic eruption and fly through the air that it hardens instantly into the needle formations - This is not correct - but is quite laughable! Obsidian needles are rare and they are naturally formed and when conditions are just right the obsidian will fracture into needles. The most popular uses for these needles are for creating delicate sounding handmade wind chimes and jewelry, although the thinner ones can be used in acupuncture. Healing properties include the release of pain associated with grief, loss and sadness. This obsidian needle set would be an excellent addition to any rock and mineral collection or would be amazing for crafting into wind chimes or other home décor projects. I combine shipping on multiple buys so be sure to check out my eBay store where I have thousands of other items to browse through. Buyers of multiple items please message me before check out for help combining shipping fees.