mineral

Tiger's Eye

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)

Hardness: 7.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden brown to yellowish brown with golden chatoyancy, Luster: Silky, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71

Hardness: 7

Identified May 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.0 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden brown to yellowish brown with golden chatoyancy, Luster: Silky, Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal, Cleavage: None, Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz replaces parallel fibers of crocidolite asbestos through a process called pseudomorphism, usually found in metamorphic rock formations like ferruginous quartzites.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's stone due to its chatoyant optical effect.

Geological facts

The characteristic shimmering effect is known as chatoyancy or the 'cat\'s eye' effect. It is a pseudomorph stone, meaning one mineral took over the shape of another without changing the external form.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive golden-brown bands and silky sheen that moves as the stone is tilted. Major deposits are found in South Africa, Western Australia, India, and Myanmar.

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