mineral
Green Tiger's Eye
Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vibrant green color with dark bands, silky to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system. It exhibits a distinct chatoyant light effect.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, vibrant green color with dark bands, silky to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system. It exhibits a distinct chatoyant light effect.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the replacement of crocidolite asbestos fibers by silica-rich solutions, typically in ancient metamorphic environments. It is a secondary mineral alteration.
Uses & applications
Widely used for polished beads, jewelry, cabochons, and ornamental carvings.
Geological facts
The vibrant green coloration in commercial specimens is almost always achieved through artificial dye treatment of natural brown tiger's eye. True natural green tiger's eye is extremely rare.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its moving band of reflected light (chatoyancy) and high resistance to scratching due to quartz composition. Commonly sourced from South Africa and Australia.
