Black Gemstones
Black gemstones and crystals — 29 popular black stones with photos and identification notes. Looking for black crystal names for jewellery, collecting or a daily-carry stone? Start here, then test yourself in the crystal quiz.
Black crystals, stones & gemstone names
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Obsidian
Mohs 5–6
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Snowflake Obsidian
Mohs 5–6
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Basalt
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Agate
Mohs 6.5–7
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Tourmaline
Mohs 7.0–7.5
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Onyx
Mohs 6.5–7
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Hematite
Mohs 5.5–6.5
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Malachite
Mohs 3.5–4
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Magnetite
Mohs 5.5–6.5
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Spinel
Mohs 7.5–8.0
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Jadeite
Mohs 6.5–7
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Jet
Mohs 2.5–4.0
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Tektite
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Vivianite
Mohs 1.5–2
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Shungite
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Smoky Quartz
Mohs 7 – lower in impure varieties (defining mineral)
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Iron Meteorite
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Chrysocolla
Mohs 2.5–3.5 (7 for chrysocolla chalcedony, high-silica content)
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Rhodonite
Mohs 5.5–6.5
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Epidote
Mohs 6–7
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Staurolite
Mohs 7 – 7.5
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Sardonyx
Mohs 6.5–7
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Cuprite
Mohs 3.5 to 4
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Larvikite
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Molybdenite
Mohs 1–1.5
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Hypersthene
Mohs 5.5–6
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Purpurite
Mohs 4–5
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Nuummite
Mohs 5.5 - 6.0
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Schorl
Mohs 7.0–7.5
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular black crystal?
Obsidian is among the best-known black stones. Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass formed when lava extruded from a volcano cools rapidly with minimal crystal growth. It is an igneous rock. Prod
Are all black gemstones rare or expensive?
No. Black stones range from common, affordable minerals to rare gem-quality material. Value depends on the species, clarity and whether the colour is natural or treated.