Igneous
Apache Tear (Obsidian)
Obsidian
Hardness: 5-5.5. Color: Black. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Amorphous. Conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Black
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5. Color: Black. Luster: Vitreous (glassy). Crystal structure: Amorphous. Conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the rapid cooling of rhyolitic lava. Often found in volcanic regions, particularly the American Southwest.
Uses & applications
Collecting, lapidary, occasionally inexpensive jewelry. Historically used for making tools and arrowheads, though Apache Tears specifically are usually too small and rounded.
Geological facts
Legend says they are the tears of Apache women mourning warriors who leaped from a cliff to avoid capture by US cavalry.
Field identification & locations
Identified by their black color, glassy luster, and typical rounded, nodular shape. Common in areas of past volcanic activity.
