Jet-black stone, warm copper tone and bright silver tone come together on this pendulum. It is made of a polished obsidian point, a copper-coil middle section, a silver-tone cap and a long metal chain. The stone is small. It is about 25 cm long including the chain and was made in India.
The stone once polished into mirrors
Obsidian is volcanic glass that forms when lava cools quickly. Polished, it reflects like a mirror, and in Central America the Aztecs made mirrors from it. Against the black surface, the warm colour of the copper coil stands out even more.
Obsidian is traditionally a stone of protection. Fingerprints show on its mirror-like surface, so it is worth wiping after use.
Over white paper, with a steady hand
The black stone shows up well over a sheet of white paper, so even small swings are easy to follow. Put a blank sheet on the table, sit in front of it and rest your elbow.
Before asking, take a deep breath or two and wait until the point is completely still. Then silently ask your question and watch which way it sets off. If you cannot see the movement clearly, hold the chain shorter or move the sheet closer. Pinch the end of the chain between two fingers rather than holding it in your palm.
Treat it like glass
Being glass, it can chip or break if it falls on a hard surface. Keep it in a box, and avoid swinging it over a stone floor. Wipe the metal parts with a soft, dry cloth and do not soak them in water. Shade and surface vary slightly from the picture.