metamorphic

Likely tiger’s-eye rough fragment

Tiger’s-eye (quartz, SiO₂, with fibrous crocidolite-derived inclusions)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The small fragment appears brown-gold along one edge and dark blue-green on its face, but the image is insufficient for firm identification. Tiger’s-eye has Mohs hardness 6.5–7, a silky chatoyant luster, and no prominent cleavage; this specimen’s visible surface appears dull and unpolished.

Identified September 25, 2026More metamorphic →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Tiger’s-eye forms when silica replaces fibrous crocidolite during alteration, commonly in iron-rich metamorphic rocks; its age depends on the host deposit. The pictured piece could instead be another dark rock or mineral.

Uses & applications

Tiger’s-eye is cut and polished for beads, cabochons, ornaments, and small carvings; rough fragments are mainly collected or used decoratively.

Geological facts

Its characteristic moving, eye-like band of reflected light is caused by aligned fibrous inclusions and is easiest to see on a polished surface.

Field identification & locations

Confirm by inspecting for silky bands that shift with viewing angle and testing hardness only on an inconspicuous spot. Tiger’s-eye is notably sourced from South Africa and Western Australia; the photo alone cannot establish the identity.