igneous
Apache Tear (Obsidian)
Obsidian (Si02 - Amorphous Silicate)
Hardness: 5-5.5; Color: Deep black to translucent reddish-brown when held to light; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (no crystal structure); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Deep black to translucent reddish-brown when held to light
- Luster
- Vitreous/Glassy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5; Color: Deep black to translucent reddish-brown when held to light; Luster: Vitreous/Glassy; Structure: Amorphous (no crystal structure); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of silica-rich rhyolitic lava. The 'Apache Tear' form refers to sub-rounded nodules of obsidian that remained as kernels within weathered perlite deposits, typically dating to the Cenozoic era.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for making tumbled stones, cabochons, and healing crystals. Historically, obsidian was used for high-precision cutting tools and arrowheads.
Geological facts
Legend says these stones formed from the tears of Apache women mourning over 75 warriors who leaped to their deaths from a cliff rather than face capture. When held to light, these dark stones often reveal a smoky transparency.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy luster and smooth, rounded water-worn appearance. In the field, look for them within gray, crumbly perlite beds in volcanic regions like Arizona and Nevada.
