🔥Casting obsidian is a difficult process due to its high melting point and impurities.
🌋Obsidian is made of silica, like regular glass, but also has unknown impurities.
⚙️Adding flux with lower melting points helps in melting and casting obsidian.
⚔️Knapping obsidian can create razor-thin blades, but casting allows for more complex shapes.
💥Casting obsidian can result in fragile glass, which requires careful annealing.
Why is casting obsidian difficult?
—Obsidian has a high melting point and impurities that make it challenging to work with.
What is the purpose of adding flux?
—Flux with lower melting points helps in melting obsidian and makes it easier to cast.
Can obsidian be knapped into thin blades?
—Yes, but casting allows for more complex shapes and designs.
Why did the obsidian turn transparent during casting?
—The addition of flux and the casting process can change the appearance of obsidian.
Is the cast obsidian blade strong?
—The cast obsidian blade may be fragile and more ceremonial than functional.
00:00Introduction: Exploring the possibility of casting obsidian.
00:26Challenges of casting obsidian due to its high melting point.
01:50Using flux to lower the melting point and facilitate casting.
03:32Comparing knapping and casting obsidian for blade production.
05:44Attempts and challenges in the casting process.
09:54Collaboration with a glassmaking studio for annealing.
12:09Reflection on the final result and the nature of the cast obsidian.
13:40Conclusion and plans for future experiments.
