mineral

Tiger's Eye

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)

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

Hardness: 6
Color: Golden yellow to deep brown with silky luster

Identified May 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz replaces fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) while retaining the original fibrous structure. Most deposits are approximately 2 billion years old, found in metamorphosed iron formations.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings (like the seahorse shown), and as a popular collector's mineral.

Geological facts

The unique shimmer is called chatoyancy, or the 'cat-eye effect.' It is considered a pseudomorph because it is quartz that has taken the form of another mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the shifting bands of light (chatoyancy) when rotated. Major deposits are found in South Africa, Australia, and Thailand. High-quality pieces show distinct, sharp light ribbons.

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Mineral/Rock

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Metamorphic Rock

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mineral