mineral

Tiger's Eye

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow, brown, reddish-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71

Hardness: 6
Color: Golden yellow, brown, reddish-brown
Luster: Silky

Identified June 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Golden yellow, brown, reddish-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich fluids replace the fibrous mineral crocidolite (blue asbestos) while maintaining its fibrous structure, a process called pseudomorphism. Often found in metamorphic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's gemstone due to its chatoyancy.

Geological facts

Tiger's Eye displays a unique optical effect known as chatoyancy (the cat's-eye effect), which appears as moving bands of light across the surface. When the iron content is naturally lower, it can appear as blue 'Hawk's Eye'.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive gold and brown stripes and silky luster. It is commonly found in South Africa, Western Australia, India, and Burma. Collectors look for stones with high chatoyancy and few surface pits.

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