Rock Identifier
Blue Tiger's Eye (Hawk's Eye) (Silicified Crocidolite (Silicon Dioxide with inclusions of Crocidolite), SiO2) — Mineral
Mineral

Blue Tiger's Eye (Hawk's Eye)

Silicified Crocidolite (Silicon Dioxide with inclusions of Crocidolite), SiO2

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs scale); Color: Blue-gray to blue-green with chatoyancy; Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous aggregate); Cleavage: None/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71

Hardness
6
Color
Blue-gray to blue-green with chatoyancy
Luster
Silky
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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5–7 (Mohs scale); Color: Blue-gray to blue-green with chatoyancy; Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous aggregate); Cleavage: None/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed through the pseudomorphism of blue crocidolite (asbestos fibers) by quartz. Unlike gold Tiger's Eye, the iron in Hawk's Eye has not oxidized. It is primarily found in Precambrian metamorphosed iron formations.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry for cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also highly popular as a 'talisman' or healing stone in metaphysical communities and among mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Also known as Falcon's Eye. Its chatoyancy (cat-eye effect) is caused by light reflecting off the internal fibrous structure of the mineral fibers preserved in quartz. If the blue fibers are heated or weathered, they turn golden-brown, becoming the common Tiger's Eye.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique silky, wavy 'shimmer' when rotated under light (chatoyancy). It is commonly found in South Africa (Griequaland West), Australia, and Namibia. Collectors should look for deep, saturated blue-grays with sharp, moving light bands.

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