Colombianite- The Lightning Stone
Museum-grade backlit colombianite (via Oceanstone Collections).
Cauca River Valley, Cali, Colombia
Enter colombianite, the sensational and exceptional sacred stone revered among mystics and the cause of heavy debate among geologists. Because these mysterious stones only recently entered the mainstream market along with moldavite in 2019, there is little information on them, geologically or spiritually, so if you are working with Colombianite for energy or reiki work, you are a modern pioneer rediscovering an ancient artefact. Known as the ‘Piedra del Rayo’ to the local Muisca tribes of the Cauca River Valley, aka, the Stone of Light(ning), it is used by shamans to connect with sacred and divine energies while staying grounded.
Geology and Formation
In academic circles, there are conflicting narratives about the stone’s origin story: some believe it is a true tektite created during the Cali crater impact event around 3.3 mya, which left an observable impact crater directly upstream of the collection region (Ocampo, et al., 2017), and resulted in characteristic surface pitting and trapped air bubbles, while other researchers believe it is an obsidian pebble resulting from the weathered core of Orinoco obsidian boulders that have survived an astounding 30 mya- the gemmy hearts of an ancient volcano (Lehrman, 2015; Fierrere et al., 2021), displaying characteristic flow-banding, microphenocrysts and micro-crystalline rhyolitic structure. Perhaps it is possible that it was formed from a meteor impact in an active volcanic zone, or is the result of an exceptionally powerful volcano that ejected molten magma high into the upper atmosphere, where it condensed and cooled as cosmic gemmy obsidian nodules. It is found to be composed of ~75% SiO2, 15% Al2O3, 4% Na2O, 4% K2O, and can contain trace FeO, CaO, Cr, Co, Rb, Zr and Ba (non-published Oceanstone laboratory work).
A selection of high grade colombianites showcasing the different shapes and surface textures (via Oceanstone Collections).
Colombianites are strictly collected along the Cauca River Valley, where they appear in associated alluvial sediments. According to Fierrere et al. (2021), “The area of occurrence is more than 200 km long and some 30–40 km wide, with the department capital city of Cali approximately located at the center-western part of it… Cali glass samples are generally associated with paleosurfaces covered by residual soil and/or in alluvial/colluvial deposits.” Based on the results of their electron microprobe and microscope analysis, “a few small vesicles and mineral inclusions occur, including silica, feldspar, iron oxides, zircon, and apatite.” These results align with analyses done by Dave Bailey, professor of Geosciences at Hamilton College, who found similar evidence of microlites and microphenocrysts, as well as feldspar, iron oxide and zircon, using samples sent from the Oceanstone Collection. The conclusion of both of these researchers is that colombianite is the gemmy and highly energetic result of a volcanic eruption during the Pliocene, exceptionally preserved after being subjected to erosion and fluvial processes in a tropical environment.
There is little information about the estimated number of colombianites in existence, but it is likely similar to moldavite in its quantity and of similar geographic range (6,000-8,000 km^2).
Colombianites in natural autumn daylight (via Oceanstone Collections).
History, Mythology and Uses
Colombianite is the sacred stone of the Muisca tribes of the Cauca River Valley, Cali, Colombia. It connects with the sacred and divine origin, to communicate with invisible and cosmic forces and is traditionally carried as a talisman to balance feminine and masculine energies. It is very similar to saffordite, but the effects are calmer and purer. It has been reported in helping to lift the veil and align one with their higher spiritual calling while cleansing negative thought forms, emotional baggage and outdated belief systems. Connection to the higher self and cosmic consciousness improves. It has become popular among shamans, philosophers, and light workers. Because it is so rare, it is thought that those drawn to it have a higher calling or are beginning to awake to their spiritual nature or purpose, as they are reminded of their divinity and connection to the earth. It is considered the highest vibration of any obsidian and is well paired with moldavite to provide grounding without sacrificing potency.
Colombianite used by a Taita shaman during ceremony in Colombia, along with a Herkimer diamond and native talismans (via Oceanstone Collections).
Because Colombia is a country rife with undeveloped infrastructure and political/military tension and steeped in ancient culture that has remained largely undocumented by the Western world, there is not very much documented information on colombianite or its historical significance beyond stories and oration. It is also hard to source, and its collection is purely from local artisanal/hobbyist miners or families that have been collecting the stone locally for generations. Here at Oceanstone, we travel to Colombia and have fostered personal relationships that allow us to collect directly from the source. Every stone purchased from Oceanstone, in turn, allows us to support these local families.
Colombianite is truly a magical and fascinating stone, holding light within the dark. It is not until one passes light through the dark stone, that its true nature is revealed. It is an excellent reminder of our connection to the cosmos, elemental powers, and the possibility that the most brilliant and beautiful light can shine in even the most unlikely and darkest of places.
Elemental dragon nature art featuring moldavite eye, colombianite, and libyan desert glass/leaf flame (via Oceanstone Collections).
According to some, Colombianite is known as one of the Cintamani Stones in Sanskrit, whose Buddhist and Hindu prophecy speaks of four relics given from the sky to the people, to gain God’s mercy over earthly life, achieving oneness with the planet’s Dharma. The Cintamani Stone prophecy is rooted in ancient legends, especially in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, where the Cintamani is seen as a mythical, wish-fulfilling jewel with profound spiritual power. It is often compared to the philosopher’s stone in Western alchemy or the Holy Grail in Christian tradition, symbolizing enlightenment, prosperity, and universal well-being. Some versions of the legend even suggest that the stone has extraterrestrial origins, falling to Earth from a sacred planet or star, or that it was a "gift" from enlightened beings or a manifestation of divine will.
Descriptions of the Cintamani Stone’s appearance vary widely:
Radiant Jewel: In many traditions, the Cintamani Stone is portrayed as a radiant, glowing jewel, often emitting light in shades of blue, green, or violet. Some legends describe it as having a mesmerizing, ethereal glow that illuminates its surroundings. Its color and luminosity are often described as "otherworldly," indicating its supernatural qualities.
Size and Shape: The stone is sometimes depicted as a large, crystal-like object, spherical or oval, and smooth to the touch. However, it’s also described as small, like a gem, depending on the cultural source. The idea is that it has an unassuming size yet radiates immense energy.
Engraved or Inscribed with Symbols: Some descriptions include ancient symbols or sacred markings on the surface of the Cintamani Stone. These symbols are said to represent cosmic or spiritual energies, adding to the stone’s power and significance.
Celestial or "Falling Star" Look: In New Age interpretations, it is sometimes imagined as a meteorite-like stone with a metallic, dark surface, hinting at extraterrestrial origins. This version often resembles a tektite, a type of natural glass formed from meteoritic impacts, which aligns with beliefs that the stone may have fallen from the sky.
According to some versions of this prophecy, the Cintamani Stone will play a crucial role in a future era of spiritual awakening and peace for humanity. It is often described as part of a divine plan to shift the world to a higher consciousness, bringing a time of unity, harmony, and enlightenment.
Global Awakening: The prophecy suggests that the Cintamani Stone will be "activated" or "discovered" at the right time, igniting a wave of enlightenment that will spread worldwide. This awakening is believed to encourage greater compassion, understanding, and a collective sense of purpose.
Return of the Golden Age: Some interpretations align the Cintamani Stone prophecy with the concept of a "Golden Age" or a period of peace and prosperity. This era is thought to come after a time of great turmoil, during which humanity will overcome various challenges through spiritual growth and unity.
Connection to Shambhala: In Tibetan Buddhism, the legendary kingdom of Shambhala is often associated with the Cintamani Stone. It is said that when the world is ready, beings from Shambhala, along with the power of the Cintamani Stone, will help humanity achieve enlightenment and peace.
Guiding Humanity through Chaos: Another layer of the prophecy holds that the stone will help humans through a period of chaos or crises, offering spiritual insight and guiding leaders and lightworkers toward solutions that benefit all of humankind.
There are various ways one can interact and connect with a crystal. This may be done energetically, through meditation and connecting electromagnetic fields, stimulating certain chakra points or areas of the body, or by listening to it (as in the case of certain quartz and angel chimes which emit high-frequency tones), or even by tasting or breathing on it. I believe, that by touching a crystal, we are downloading the ‘language’ or symbolism of the texture of the elements and event that created the stone, much like how blind people read braille. For example, a ‘Lemurian’ quartz with horizontal growth lines or record keepers, preserves the texture of the perfect molecular surface termination of crystalline silicon dioxide, while a meteorite preserves the feeling and texture of a high-energy metallic remnant of an ancient celestial body that has absorbed billions of years of solar radiation and travelled at high speeds through an unforgiving atmosphere. In the case of Colombianite, the unique texture is the result of molten lava/plasma flying through space, and rubbing one’s fingers over the surface of the stone is like reading and downloading the language of that fiery and high-energy event.
Be prepared for universal downloads.
