igneous

Apache Tears (Obsidian)

Hydrated Volcanic Glass (Amorphous SiO2 + H2O)

Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs), Color: Translucent dark brown to black when held to light, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Specific Gravity: 2.35-2.6

Hardness: 5-5

Identified March 16, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs), Color: Translucent dark brown to black when held to light, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline), Specific Gravity: 2.35-2.6

Formation & geological history

Formed from rapid cooling of high-silica rhyolitic lava. These rounded nodules are often found embedded in gray perlite; they represent the core of a larger mass of volcanic glass that did not hydrate into perlite.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry (pendants and beads), and as a popular metaphysical or decorative gemstone for collectors.

Geological facts

Legend states that the stones formed from the tears of Apache women mourning warriors who leaped to their deaths; it is a variety of obsidian that is uniquely translucent compared to the completely opaque black obsidian.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by their rounded, pebble-like appearance often coated in white chalky perlite; holding them to a strong light source will reveal a smoky brown translucency. Common in the American Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico) and Mexico.

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

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Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

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Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

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Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

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Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral