Apache Tear (Obsidian)

Physical Properties

Hardness: 5-5.5; Color: Black, smoky translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6

Formation & Geological History

Formed from viscous rhyolitic lava that cools rapidly. These nodules are often found embedded in perlite grey-white matrices. Most specimens found in North America date back to the Pliocene or Miocene eras.

Uses & Applications

Used in lapidary work, jewelry making (pendants and wire-wrapping), and as a popular specimen for rock collectors and practitioners of crystal healing.

Geological Facts

According to legend, the stones were formed from the tears of Apache women mourning for warriors who jumped from a cliff rather than be captured by the US Cavalry. Geologically, they are weathered obsidian nodules.

Field Identification & Locations

Identify by their rounded, pebble-like 'potato' shape and smoky translucence when a light is shone through them. Commonly found in the American Southwest, particularly Arizona and Nevada.

Identified on: 4/19/2026

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