Igneous
Apache Tear
Hydrated Obsidian (Volcanic Glass)
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black to dark brown, but translucent/honey-colored when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.6.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black to dark brown, but translucent/honey-colored when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 2.3–2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rhyolitic lava flows that cool rapidly before crystals can grow. These specific rounded nodules are often found embedded in a grayish perlite matrix, formed by the hydration of obsidian over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry (pendants and beads), and as a popular collector's specimen. In metaphysical circles, they are used as 'grief stones'.
Geological facts
According to legend, the name comes from a 19th-century battle where Pinal Apaches, facing defeat, rode their horses off a cliff. Their grieving families' tears turned into these dark stones when they hit the ground. Scientifically, they are just sub-spherical obsidian cores.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by looking for rounded, black, glass-like pebbles within crumbly, light-grey perlite. Hold a piece up to a bright light source; if it glows brown/amber and is translucent, it is an Apache Tear. Commonly found in Arizona and Nevada, USA.
