mineral

Tiger's Eye

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) - Pseudomorph after crocidolite

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Golden to red-brown with silky luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71

Hardness: 6
Color: Golden to red-brown with silky luster

Identified May 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: Golden to red-brown with silky luster; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz replaces crocidolite (blue asbestos) fibers through a process called pseudomorphism, typically found in iron-rich sedimentary or metamorphic environments.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for rock collectors.

Geological facts

It exhibits 'chatoyancy', a cat-eye effect caused by the reflection of light off the parallel mineral fibers. If the original crocidolite isn't oxidized, it remains blue and is called Hawk's Eye.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct bands of gold and brown and its characteristic silky, light-shifting luster. Large deposits are found in South Africa, Western Australia, and Namibia.

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