Apache Tears

Other Names

Black Obsidian

Associations

Deity: Saturn, Cronos
Sabbat: Mabon
Planet: Saturn, Pluto
Element: Fire
Zodiac: Capricorn, Sagittarius, Scorpio
Chakra: Root
Other Gems: Obsidian, Snowflake Obsidian

Description

Apache Tears appear as small, smooth stones. They may appear to be an opaque black, but when held to the light they reveal their smokey black, red or brown translucency. They have a Mohs rating of 5 to 5.5, meaning they are average in hardness – neither very hard nor very soft.

About

Apache Tears are formed inside perlite, a volcanic glass which is made when water enters an obsidian lava flow as it cools. If the water does not permeate the core, this remains as a nodule of obsidian which we call Apache Tears.

Health

Apache Tears can be used as an aid against depression, and to lift the spirits in general. They enhance the immune system, and detoxify and fortify the body. Apache Tears can be used to calm muscle spasms. They are also beneficial for the absorption of vitamins, and can help with ailments of the stomach and intenstines.

Magic

Apache Tears can help you ground yourself, and develop a connection with the earth. They can give you courage and strength and they bring hope in difficult times. Apache Tears can also help you deal with forgiveness – giving to others and accepting it yourself.

Apache Tears are also good cleansing stone, dispelling negativity in the environment and helping to eliminate it from your emotions as well. They can also provide good protection from negative energies, including psychic attacks.

Legend & Lore

This stone draws its name from a tale about Apache Indians surrounded and out-numbered by the military in Arizona. All the Apaches were either killed by gunfire, or chose to leap from the cliff edge instead. The Apache women stood at the foot of the cliff and wept for their dead, and so great was their grief that the Great Father took their tears and embedded them in black stones. These stones, when held to the light, reveal the transluscent tears of the Apache. It was said that anyone carrying one of these stones would never need to cry again, for the Apache women have shed enough tears in their place.