Apache tears are a captivating variety of obsidian, known for their smooth, rounded shapes and deep, smoky hues. Formed from rapidly cooled lava, these natural volcanic glasses offer a translucent surprise when held up to the light. Their intriguing appearance and the poignant legend tied to their name make Apache tears a fascinating subject for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Historical and Cultural Context
The name “Apache tears” originates from a poignant legend associated with the Apache tribe in the southwestern United States. According to the tale, these stones symbolize the grief of Apache women who mourned the loss of their loved ones in a tragic battle. The somber color and teardrop shape of the stones are said to embody their sorrow, adding a profound emotional and historical dimension to their significance.
Formation and Geology

Geologically, Apache tears are found in rhyolitic lava flows where obsidian formed and then hydrated. Unlike typical obsidian, which is uniformly glassy, Apache tears are naturally occurring rounded pebbles of obsidian. These rounded shapes are formed by the hydration of obsidian, causing it to gel and contract, creating distinct, rounded masses embedded within a grayish-white perlite matrix. The contrast between the dark, glossy Apache tears and the dull, porous perlite is quite striking.
Physical Characteristics
Apache tears are notable for their smooth, rounded shapes and the way they appear opaque until held to the light, revealing their translucency. They are softer than typical mineral glass, with a hardness of about 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale, making them relatively easy to handle and work with for various uses.
- Classification: Variety of obsidian
- Chemical Composition: SiO₂ with impurities (silicon dioxide)
- Color: Smoky black to dark brown, translucent when held up to the light
- Streak: White to gray
- Hardness: 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Conchoidal
- Luster: Vitreous to greasy
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque
- Crystal System: Amorphous
Identification Tips
- Translucency: One of the key characteristics is their translucency when held against light, showing a smoky interior.
- Shape and Texture: They are generally smooth with a rounded, pebble-like shape.
- Fracture: Like other forms of obsidian, Apache tears exhibit a conchoidal fracture.
- Hardness: They can scratch softer materials but can be scratched by harder substances like glass.
Notable Specimens and Localities

Apache tears are most famously found in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona. They can also be found in other volcanic regions around the world. These locations provide a rich source of Apache tears, embedded within their distinctive perlite matrix.
Uses and Significance
Apache tears are collected as gemstones and are popular among hobbyists for jewelry-making due to their unique look and historical lore. They are commonly used in jewelry, especially in pendants and necklaces, where their smooth, rounded shape and emotional backstory make them particularly appealing. They are also of interest in geological studies due to their formation process.
Preservation and Care
To maintain the appearance of Apache tears, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and excessive sunlight. Cleaning should be done with mild soap and water, and abrasive materials should be avoided to prevent scratching.
Fun Facts
- Historical Uses: The Apache tear legend adds a layer of historical and emotional significance to these stones, making them unique among other forms of obsidian.
- Unique Traits: Apache tears are distinct in their appearance and formation, making them a fascinating subject for both collectors and geologists.
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