Apache Tears, also known as Obsidianite, are rare formations of Black Obsidian created by the rapid cooling of lava in water. As the lava hardens into volcanic glass, it naturally forms small indented pebbles that resemble teardrops.
The lore of Apache Tears is closely intertwined with the Apache Wars of the late 19th century — a series of conflicts between the United States Army and the native Apache people of the American Southwest. According to legend, during one tense mountaintop skirmish with the US Cavalry, a group of Apache warriors elected to ride their horses off the mountainside rather than face capture. Apache Tears are said to be the tears that their families cried when they learned of their fate.
With their tragic mythology and natural teardrop shape, Apache Tears are known to powerfully heal grief and mourning. They’re also among the best gems you can work with for letting go and moving on. Apache Tear Obsidian encourages you to release heavy emotions, allowing your grief to flow from you and into the stone. This gem holds your tears so you don’t have to.
The energy of Apache Tear Obsidian is much gentler than normal Black Obsidian, helping us process negative emotions and accept difficult truths. It teaches us to heal emotional wounds from a place of compassion, allowing us to forgive both ourselves and others. When you’re ready to cry it out and feel all that intense emotion you’ve been bottling up, Apache Tears will help guide you through your grieving.
