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Apache tear obsidian properties8/11/2023 ![]() “Apache Tears” are cut by faceters today because they are plentiful and inexpensive. was found in the tomb of King Tuthankhamen. Jewelry set with obsidian made about 1,352 B.C. Obsidian was used for bowls and cups as early as 3,200 B.C. Nevertheless, it has long attracted gem cutters and gem carvers. ![]() Obsidian, with a hardness of 5 to 5.5, is brittle and chips easily. Perlite is used in making lightweight concrete and is also used in the manufacturing of insulation. It is interesting to note that the “Apache Tear” and perlite surrounding it have been formed from the same volcanic material and yet the “Tears” are dark in color and its coating of perlite is light in color. Hold the “Tear” to the light to see how translucent it is. Tumbling and polishing will reveal a shiny glass pebble that may be black or smoky in color. All Black Obsidian has an association with being useful for purging negative energy, but Apache Tear is thought to be more gentle and comforting. In the metaphysical world, Apache Tears are the premier stone for times of grief, mourning or recovery. “Apache Tears” are found in grayish white volcanic material called “perlite.” Perlite is obsidian that has weathered and altered until it has become porous and lightweight.Įach “Apache Tear” lump will have an uneven coating of perlite clinging to it after being pried or dug from a mass of perlite. Apache Tears are a form of Black Obsidian that is transparent when held to the light. The hot lava forming obsidian cooled much too quickly to allow crystals to form. ![]() Don’t look for crystals of obsidian because you won’t find any. “Apache Tears” have been found primarily in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.Īll “Apache Tears” are obsidian, but not all obsidians are “Apache Tears.” Obsidian is natural volcanic glass. As you probably have guessed, these nodules are found in locations where Apache Indians lived in the US Southwest. Not all rock and mineral books have a listing for “Apache Tears.” This is because “Apache Tear” is not a valid mineral name but is a well-known nickname for some obsidian nodules. If you have a specimen in your collection labeled “Apache Tear” and want information about it, you could have a problem.
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