Mineral

Red Tigers Eye (Bull's Eye)

SiO2

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange. Luster: Silky. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), formed as pseudomorph. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange
Luster: Silky

Identified June 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange. Luster: Silky. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), formed as pseudomorph. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.

Formation & geological history

Formed when crocidolite (blue asbestos) is replaced by silica (quartz) and undergoes natural or artificial heat treatment which oxidizes the iron within it, changing the golden color to red.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in jewelry making, carved into cabochon cuts to display the chatoyancy, also used for ornamental objects and tumbling stones.

Geological facts

Red tiger's eye is often a result of heat treatment applied to golden tiger's eye, although it can occasionally occur naturally from geothermal heat. The chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) is due to the parallel reflection of light on the fibrous structure.

Field identification & locations

Identifiable by its reddish-brown color combined with a distinct chatoyant effect when turned in the light. Commonly sourced from South Africa. Look for the bands of shifting light.