igneous
Obsidian (Apache Tear)
Volcanic Glass (SiO2)
Hardness: 5-5.5 (Mohs); Color: Jet black to dark brown, translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.35-2.6
- Hardness
- 5-5
- Color
- Jet black to dark brown, translucent when held to light
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
Identified More igneous →
Explore Obsidian (Apache Tear) 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: Jet black to dark brown, translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.35-2.6
Formation & geological history
Formed through the rapid cooling of silica-rich rhyolitic lava that prevents crystal growth. Apache tears are weathered, rounded nodules specifically found in perlite deposits from the Cenozoic era.
Uses & applications
Used in lapidary for jewelry (pendants and rings), metaphysical collecting, and historically for sharp tools like arrowheads and surgical blades due to its razor-sharp fracture edges.
Geological facts
Legend says Apache Tears were formed from the tears of family members mourning warriors who leaped from a cliff rather than face defeat. Unlike most obsidian, these nodules are naturally rounded by erosion within a soft perlite matrix.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its glassy texture, deep black color, and the ability to see light through the edges. Commonly found in the American Southwest, particularly Arizona and Nevada. Collectors look for high transparency and lack of internal cracks.
