igneous

Apache Tears (Obsidian)

Volcanic Glass (SiO2 - Silicon Dioxide with impurities)

Hardness: 5-5.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark brown to black, translucent when held to light; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.6

Hardness: 5-5
Color: Dark brown to black, translucent when held to light
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified March 25, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from rapid cooling of high-silica rhyolitic lava that prevents crystal growth. These specific rounded nodules are often found embedded in perlite, derived from volcanism during the Tertiary period (approx. 20-30 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Popular in jewelry as tumbled stones or cabochons, used in lithotherapy/metaphysical practices, and highly valued as beginner rock-hounding specimens.

Geological facts

According to legend, the stones were formed from the tears of Apache women mourning warriors who leaped from a cliff to avoid capture. Geologically, they are remnants of obsidian hydration where the surrounding perlite has weathered away.

Field identification & locations

Identify by holding to a strong light source; genuine Apache Tears will be translucent smoky-brown while ordinary obsidian remains opaque. Commonly found in the American Southwest, specifically Arizona and Nevada.

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