mineral

Tiger's Eye (Multicolor/Variegated)

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2 with iron oxides)

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Golden brown, blue, and reddish bands; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.64-2.71. Displays strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect).

Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Golden brown, blue, and reddish bands
Luster: Silky

Identified March 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite (asbestos) through a process called pseudomorphism. As the quartz replaces the fibers, the original structure is preserved, and iron staining creates the golden, brown, and red hues.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (pendants, beads, rings), carvings, and ornamental objects. It is also a popular stone in lithotherapy and for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Commonly associated with 'protection' and 'focus' in folklore. The blue variety is known as Hawk's Eye, while the red variety is often created by heat-treating the natural golden variety to oxidize the iron.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive shimmering bands that appear to move when the stone is rotated (chatoyancy). Common locations include South Africa (Northern Cape), Australia, Myanmar, and Namibia.

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