Tiger's Eye

Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden to reddish-brown, often with chatoyancy showing golden yellow to brown bands. Luster: Silky. Crystal Structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71.

Tiger's Eye forms from the alteration of crocidolite (a fibrous blue asbestos mineral) into quartz. The fibrous structure of the crocidolite is preserved as it is replaced by silica, and the characteristic golden-brown color is due to the oxidation of iron within the crocidolite fibers. This process typically occurs in metamorphic environments, often in areas with significant hydrothermal activity. Geological Age: Formed over millions of years, found in ancient rock formations.

Primarily used as an ornamental stone in jewelry, particularly for beads, cabochons, and carvings, due to its striking chatoyancy. Also used for decorative objects, small sculptures, and as a popular stone for collectors. In metaphysical circles, it's used for balancing emotions, promoting courage, and aiding in decision-making.

Tiger's Eye is a pseudomorph of quartz, meaning it formed as quartz replaced crocidolite while retaining the fibrous structure of the original mineral. It is often believed to bring good luck, protection, and mental clarity. 'Hawk's Eye' and 'Bull's Eye' are related varieties; Hawk's Eye is blue-gray and less oxidized, while Bull's Eye (or Red Tiger's Eye) is a heat-treated form of Tiger's Eye, intensifying its red hues.

Identify it in the field by its distinct chatoyancy (the 'cat's eye' effect), which appears as a silky, lustrous band of reflected light that moves across the surface as the stone is rotated. Its golden-brown color with darker banding is also a key indicator. It's commonly found in South Africa (the primary source), Australia, India, Burma (Myanmar), and the USA (California). For collectors, polished stones are highly sought after due to their optical effect. Rough specimens may appear dull until cut and polished.