igneous
Smoky Quartz (Apache Tear Variety)
Silicon dioxide (SiO2) - Volcanic Glass
Hardness: 5.0-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black to translucent smokey brown; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black to translucent smokey brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.0-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black to translucent smokey brown; Luster: Vitreous to sub-vitreous; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (glassy); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6
Formation & geological history
Formed from rapid cooling of high-silica (rhyolitic) lava. These are rounded nodules of obsidian that remained after surrounding perlite weathered away; typically found in Cenozoic volcanic deposits.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary work for cabochons and jewelry. Also popular in metaphysical/collector communities and as high-quality decorative gravel.
Geological facts
According to legend, the stones represent the frozen tears of Apache women who mourned warriors who leapt to their deaths rather than be captured by the US Cavalry. They are unique for being 'nuggets' of glass found within perlite beds.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its rounded, water-worn appearance; when held to a bright light, it should appear transparent or translucent brown despite looking solid black on the surface. Commonly found in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico, USA.
