mineral

Tiger's Eye

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Limonite/Goethite inclusions

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale. Color: Golden to red-brown. Luster: Silky. Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71. Displays distinct chatoyancy (optical reflectance).

Hardness: 6
Color: Golden to red-brown
Luster: Silky

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz gradually replaces fibrous crocidolite (asbestos) through a process of pseudomorphism/metamorphism. Often found in Banded Iron Formations dating back to the Proterozoic Era.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, spiritual/metaphysical collecting, and as a semi-precious ornamental stone.

Geological facts

Formerly thought to be a pseudomorph of quartz after crocidolite, recent research suggests it may involve a concurrent growth process. It is the 9th wedding anniversary gemstone.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its unique silky luster and vertical fibrous bands that create a 'cat's eye' effect when tilted. Primary sources include South Africa (Northern Cape), Australia, and Namibia.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral