Know all about Obsidian and Shale properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Obsidian belongs to Igneous Rocks while Shale belongs to Sedimentary Rocks.Texture of Obsidian is Glassy whereas that of Shale is Clastic, Splintery. Obsidian appears Shiny and Shale appears Muddy. The luster of Obsidian is vitreous while that of Shale is dull. Obsidian is available in black, blue, brown, green, orange, red, tan, yellow colors whereas Shale is available in black, brown, buff, green, grey, red, yellow colors. The commercial uses of Obsidian are creating artwork, mirror, used in aquariums and that of Shale are creating artwork, pottery.