02a Apache Tears (Obsidian)

Apache tears are nodules of obsidian -- a volcanic glass. These 'tears' were originally part of a mass of obsidian that experienced hydration. Hot water (or even groundwater) permeated the obsidian body and caused changes that resulted in the formation of perlite (see comments below). Scattered within the perlite are centers that were not hydrated, and remain obsidian -- these are the "Apache Tears". Perlite easily disintegrates when weathered, and the 'tears' are released.

 

Apache Tears get their name from a legend. As the story goes, the U.S. Calvary pursued a group of Apache men and trapped them at the edge of a cliff, overlooking Superior, Arizona. Rather than be captured, the men leapt off the cliff. Women of the tribe gathered to mourn their deaths, and the Great Father turned their tears into clear, black stones -- Apache Tears.

 

We cannot include all information about Apache Tears. Here is a Wikipedia link to get you started in your research. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apache_tears

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