metamorphic
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Golden to red-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous aggregate); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Golden to red-brown
- Luster
- Silky
Identified More metamorphic →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Golden to red-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous aggregate); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71
Formation & geological history
Formed through the replacement of fibrous blue crocidolite asbestos by silica (quartz), a process called pseudomorphism, usually in iron-rich metamorphic rocks.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry, lapidary arts (cabochons and beads), carvings, and as a popular collector's stone or metaphysical tool.
Geological facts
Tiger's eye exhibits a unique optical effect known as chatoyancy, where reflected light creates a moving silky band due to the preserved fibrous structure of the original crocidolite crystals.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its distinct chatoyant bands and golden-yellow color. Major deposits are found in South Africa, Australia, India, and Namibia.
More like this
