igneous
Apache Tear
Hydrated Obsidians (Volcanic Glass)
Hardness: 5-5.5 Mohs; Color: Black, smoky-translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Black, smoky-translucent when held to light
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-5.5 Mohs; Color: Black, smoky-translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapid cooling of felic (silica-rich) lava that was ejected into the air or cooled within an ash flow. Often found embedded in a matrix of perlite. Most specimens date from the Tertiary period (roughly 20-30 million years ago).
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for making cabochons, jewelry, and tumble-polished stones. Highly valued in metaphysical communities for healing and protection.
Geological facts
Legend says they formed from the tears of Apache women mourning for warriors who jumped off a cliff to avoid capture by cavalry; it is said whoever owns one will never cry again.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by their rounded, pebble-like shape within white, crumbly perlite deposits. Hold against a bright light source; if it is translucent at the edges or smoky grey throughout, it is an Apache Tear. Found commonly in Arizona and Nevada.
