igneous
Apache Tear (Obsidian)
Volcanic glass / Amorphous SiO2
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs); Color: Black to dark brown (translucent when held to light); Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (no crystal structure); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; SG: 2.3-2.6.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Black to dark brown (translucent when held to light)
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
Identified More igneous →
Explore Apache Tear (Obsidian) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs); Color: Black to dark brown (translucent when held to light); Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (no crystal structure); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; SG: 2.3-2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapid cooling of silica-rich rhyolitic lava which prevents crystallization. These specific rounded nodules are typically formed by cooling within a perlite matrix over the last few million years.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for lapidary work, jewelry (pendants and beads), and as a popular souvenir/metaphysical collecting stone.
Geological facts
Legend says they formed from the tears of Apache women mourning for warriors who jumped from a cliff to avoid capture; they are distinctive from other obsidian because they are naturally water-worn-looking nodules found in grey volcanic ash.
Field identification & locations
Identify by holding the black stone up against a strong light source; it should be translucent with a smoky tea or grey color. Found commonly in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.
