igneous
Obsidian (Apache Tears)
Volcanic Glass (Silicic Obsidian)
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 Mohs scale; Color: Black to smoky grey, translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.3 - 2.6
- Hardness
- 5 to 5
- Color
- Black to smoky grey, translucent when held to light
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 to 5.5 Mohs scale; Color: Black to smoky grey, translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.3 - 2.6
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of silica-rich lava that contains a high amount of water. These specific rounded nodules are typically weathered from perlite or rhyolite and date from the Neogene to Quaternary periods.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as polished stones or cabochons, metaphysical practices, and ornamental collecting. Historical uses include surgical blades and arrowheads due to its sharp edges.
Geological facts
Legend says that the stones were formed from the tears of Apache women mourning warriors who jumped off a cliff to avoid capture; the tears turned to stone upon hitting the ground. These are one of the few forms of obsidian that are naturally translucent.
Field identification & locations
Identify by their rounded, pebble-like shape and black color that reveals a smoky transparency when held against a light source. Commonly found in the American Southwest, particularly Arizona and New Mexico.
