mineral
Likely tumbled tiger’s-eye
Quartz variety with fibrous crocidolite pseudomorphs (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectGolden-brown, opaque to chatoyant, with a polished surface and irregular shape; quartz hardness 7 Mohs, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, specific gravity about 2.6–2.7. The photo is not detailed enough to confirm the characteristic silky banding, so identification is tentative.
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Physical properties
Golden-brown, opaque to chatoyant, with a polished surface and irregular shape; quartz hardness 7 Mohs, trigonal crystal structure, no cleavage, specific gravity about 2.6–2.7. The photo is not detailed enough to confirm the characteristic silky banding, so identification is tentative.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica replaces iron-rich crocidolite fibers, commonly during low-grade metamorphism; geological age depends on deposit.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and inexpensive collector specimens.
Geological facts
Its shifting, silky light effect is called chatoyancy; strongly banded specimens show it best.
Field identification & locations
Look for golden-brown parallel bands and a moving, cat’s-eye-like sheen; major sources include South Africa, Australia, and India. The small polished piece appears to be a decorative specimen.
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