apache tears
Thomas Nelson
Thomas Nelson
September 6, 2023 ·  10 min read

Apache Tears: Symbolism, Properties, Benefits, & More

Welcome to the fascinating world of healing crystals and stones! In this article, we will delve into the mystical properties of Apache Tears, a captivating gemstone with a rich history and powerful healing abilities. Apache Tears are a type of obsidian, formed from volcanic lava that has cooled rapidly.

These beautiful black stones, named after a Native American legend, hold a deep connection to the earth and are believed to possess profound healing and protective qualities. Join me as we explore the origins, metaphysical properties, and various uses of Apache Tears, and discover how they can enhance your spiritual journey and overall well-being.

What Are Apache Tears?

Apache Tears are a type of volcanic glass that is formed when molten lava cools quickly. They are named after an old Native American legend, which tells the story of a group of Apache warriors who were pursued by the U.S. Calvary. Rather than surrender, the warriors rode their horses off a cliff, choosing death over capture. It is said that the tears shed by the Apache women and the Great Spirit turned into these dark, obsidian-like stones.

Apache Tears are typically black or dark brown in color and have a smooth, glassy appearance. They are known for their grounding and protective properties, making them a popular choice for those seeking emotional healing and spiritual growth. These stones are believed to absorb negative energy and provide a sense of comfort during times of grief or sorrow. In addition to their emotional healing properties, Apache Tears are also thought to have physical benefits.

They are said to aid in the detoxification process, support the immune system, and help alleviate muscle tension and pain. Apache Tears can be carried in a pocket, worn as jewelry, or placed in a room to create a calming and protective atmosphere. They are often used in meditation and energy healing practices to help release emotional blockages and promote a sense of balance and harmony. Overall, Apache Tears are cherished for their powerful healing properties and their ability to provide comfort and support during challenging times.

How Are Apache Tears Formed?

Apache Tears are a type of obsidian, which is a naturally occurring volcanic glass. The formation of Apache Tears begins with volcanic activity. When a volcano erupts, it releases molten lava that flows down the sides of the volcano or is ejected into the air.

Obsidian is formed when this lava cools down rapidly, preventing the growth of mineral crystals. The rapid cooling occurs when the lava comes into contact with water or air, which causes it to solidify almost instantly. In the case of Apache Tears, the lava cools down so quickly that it forms a glass-like substance.

The unique appearance of Apache Tears is due to the presence of small mineral inclusions within the obsidian. These inclusions are usually composed of various minerals such as magnetite or hematite. These minerals can give Apache Tears their characteristic dark, opaque appearance.

Over time, the obsidian can weather and erode, especially when exposed to water and other environmental factors. This weathering process can lead to the formation of small, smooth, and rounded Apache Tears. These tears are often found in areas where volcanic activity has occurred in the past, such as volcanic fields or areas with ancient lava flows.

It’s important to note that Apache Tears are not actually tears shed by Native Americans, as the name might suggest. The name comes from a legend that tells the story of a group of Apache warriors who were pursued by the U.S. Cavalry. Rather than surrender, the warriors rode their horses off a cliff, and their tears turned into stones upon hitting the ground.

Apache Tears have been used for centuries by various cultures for their healing properties and are believed to provide protection, grounding, and emotional healing.

Different Types of Apache Tears

Apache Tears are a type of healing crystal that is highly regarded for its protective and grounding properties. They are a form of Obsidian, which is a volcanic glass formed from the rapid cooling of lava. Apache Tears are named after a Native American legend that tells the story of a tribe mourning the loss of their warriors, and their tears turning into these beautiful stones.

Here is a guide to different types of Apache Tears:

  1. Black Apache Tears: These are the most common type of Apache Tears and are known for their strong grounding and protective energies. They are excellent for absorbing negative energies and providing emotional healing. Black Apache Tears can help in releasing grief, trauma, and emotional blockages.
  2. Mahogany Apache Tears: These are a variation of Apache Tears that have a reddish-brown color due to the presence of iron oxide. Mahogany Apache Tears are particularly useful for grounding and stabilizing one’s energy. They can help in releasing self-doubt, promoting self-acceptance, and enhancing one’s sense of security and stability.
  3. Snowflake Apache Tears: These unique Apache Tears have white or grayish inclusions that resemble snowflakes. They combine the properties of Obsidian and Selenite, making them powerful for spiritual and emotional healing. Snowflake Apache Tears can assist in purifying one’s energy field, promoting balance, and enhancing spiritual growth.
  4. Rainbow Apache Tears: These Apache Tears display a beautiful array of colors, including shades of red, green, blue, and purple. They are highly sought after for their ability to balance and align all the chakras. Rainbow Apache Tears can help in promoting emotional healing, enhancing intuition, and connecting with higher realms.

How to use Apache Tears

  • Meditate with Apache Tears by holding them in your hand or placing them on your body to absorb negative energies and promote emotional healing.
  • Carry Apache Tears in your pocket or wear them as jewelry to benefit from their protective and grounding energies throughout the day.
  • Place Apache Tears in your home or workspace to create a shield against negative energies and promote a harmonious environment.
  • Use Apache Tears during energy healing sessions or Reiki to assist in releasing emotional blockages and promoting overall well-being.

Remember to cleanse and recharge your Apache Tears regularly to maintain their energetic properties. You can cleanse them by rinsing under running water, smudging with sage or palo santo, or placing them in the moonlight or sunlight for a few hours.

Apache Tears are wonderful crystals to have in your collection due to their powerful healing and protective properties. Experiment with different types of Apache Tears to find the one that resonates with you the most and enjoy the benefits they bring to your life.

Meaning and Symbolism Behind Apache Tears

Apache Tears are a type of obsidian, a volcanic glass formed from lava. They are named after a Native American legend that tells the story of a group of Apache warriors who were outnumbered and defeated by the U.S. Cavalry. Rather than surrendering, the warriors chose to ride their horses off a cliff, plunging to their deaths. It is said that the tears shed by their loved ones and the land turned into these black stones, hence the name Apache Tears.

Spiritually, Apache Tears are believed to possess powerful healing and protective properties. Here are some of their spiritual meanings:

  1. Emotional Healing: Apache Tears are often associated with emotional healing and provide comfort during times of grief, sadness, or loss. They are believed to help release and heal emotional pain, allowing one to move forward with strength and resilience.
  2. Grounding and Protection: These stones are known for their grounding and protective energies. They are believed to shield one from negative energies, psychic attacks, and emotional vampires. Apache Tears can create a protective barrier around the aura, helping to maintain a sense of emotional and energetic balance.
  3. Cleansing and Purification: Apache Tears are thought to have purifying properties, both physically and energetically. They are believed to absorb and transmute negative energies, helping to cleanse the aura and surrounding environment. This can promote a sense of clarity, peace, and balance.
  4. Releasing Emotional Baggage: These stones are often used in meditation or energy healing practices to release emotional baggage and trauma. They can help one let go of past hurts, regrets, and negative patterns, allowing for emotional healing and personal growth.
  5. Grounded Manifestation: Apache Tears are associated with the root chakra, which is responsible for grounding and stability. When this chakra is balanced, it can enhance one’s ability to manifest goals and desires into reality. These stones can assist in grounding one’s energy, providing a solid foundation for manifestation work.

It is important to note that while Apache Tears are believed to possess spiritual properties, their effectiveness may vary from person to person. It is always recommended to trust your intuition and personal experiences when working with crystals and stones.

Benefits of Apache Tears

Apache Tears are a type of obsidian, a volcanic glass formed from the rapid cooling of lava. These beautiful black stones are named after an ancient Native American legend, which tells the story of a group of Apache warriors who were outnumbered and trapped on a cliff by their enemies. Rather than surrendering, the warriors chose to jump off the cliff to their deaths. It is said that their grieving loved ones shed tears that turned into these unique stones.

Apache Tears are known for their powerful spiritual benefits, making them highly sought after by crystal enthusiasts. Here are some of the spiritual benefits associated with Apache Tears:

  1. Emotional Healing: Apache Tears are often used for emotional healing and releasing grief. They have a gentle, comforting energy that can help soothe emotional pain and bring a sense of calmness during times of sorrow or loss. These stones are believed to assist in the healing process by providing support and understanding, allowing one to release emotional baggage and move forward with renewed strength.
  2. Grounding and Protection: Apache Tears have a strong grounding energy that helps to anchor and stabilize one’s emotions and energy. They are known to provide a protective shield against negative energies, psychic attacks, and emotional vampires. By carrying or wearing Apache Tears, one can create a protective barrier around themselves, preventing the absorption of negativity and promoting a sense of safety and security.
  3. Transformation and Growth: Apache Tears are often associated with transformation and personal growth. They are believed to help one confront and release deep-seated fears, traumas, and negative patterns. By working with these stones, individuals can gain insight into their own behaviors and thought patterns, allowing them to make positive changes and move towards personal growth and self-improvement.
  4. Cleansing and Purification: Apache Tears are considered to be powerful cleansers and purifiers. They are believed to absorb and transmute negative energies, helping to clear blockages and restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit. These stones are often used in meditation or energy healing practices to cleanse and purify the aura, chakras, and energy field.
  5. Psychic Protection and Intuition: Apache Tears are known to enhance psychic protection and intuition. They are believed to sharpen one’s psychic abilities, increase intuition, and provide a deeper connection to one’s higher self and spiritual guides. By working with Apache Tears, individuals can develop a stronger sense of intuition, trust their instincts, and navigate their spiritual journey with clarity and confidence.

It is important to note that while Apache Tears can provide spiritual benefits, they are not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. They should be used as a complementary tool alongside appropriate professional support. As with any crystal or stone, it is recommended to cleanse and recharge Apache Tears regularly to maintain their energetic properties.

Zodiac Signs That Benefit from Apache Tears

Apache Tears are a type of obsidian, a volcanic glass formed from the rapid cooling of lava. These beautiful black stones are known for their powerful healing properties and are particularly beneficial for certain zodiac signs. Let’s explore which signs can benefit the most from Apache Tears:

  1. Aries (March 21 – April 19): Aries individuals are known for their strong and fiery nature. Apache Tears can help them release any pent-up emotions or anger, promoting emotional healing and balance. It also aids in grounding their energy, allowing them to find inner strength and courage.
  2. Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Taurus individuals are often grounded and practical, but they can sometimes struggle with letting go of past hurts. Apache Tears can assist them in releasing emotional baggage and promoting forgiveness, allowing them to move forward with a renewed sense of peace and stability.
  3. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Scorpios are intense and deeply emotional individuals. Apache Tears can help them navigate their intense emotions, providing a protective shield against negative energies. It also aids in transforming emotional pain into personal growth, allowing Scorpios to heal and evolve.
  4. Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Capricorns are hardworking and ambitious individuals who can sometimes become overwhelmed by stress. Apache Tears can help them release tension and negative energy, promoting emotional well-being and grounding their energy. It also assists in fostering patience and perseverance, qualities that are essential for Capricorns’ success.
  5. Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Pisces individuals are highly intuitive and sensitive. Apache Tears can help them protect their energy and establish healthy emotional boundaries. It aids in releasing emotional attachments to others, allowing Pisces to maintain their emotional well-being and avoid absorbing negative energies.

While these zodiac signs can benefit the most from Apache Tears, it’s important to note that anyone can use these stones for healing purposes. Each individual’s experience with crystals may vary, so it’s always best to trust your intuition and choose the stones that resonate with you personally.