metamorphic
Pink Tiger's Eye
Silicified Riebeckite Asbestos (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: bright magenta/pink (dyed); Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Chatoyancy: Strong
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- bright magenta/pink (dyed)
- Luster
- Silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 Mohs; Color: bright magenta/pink (dyed); Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Chatoyancy: Strong
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz replaces crocidolite asbestos through pseudomorphism. The bright pink color is achieved through a dyeing process on natural gold or blue tiger's eye. Natural deposits are primarily found in South Africa and Western Australia.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for beads, cabochons, jewelry, and ornamental carvings. Popular in metaphysical crystal collecting.
Geological facts
While the chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect) is natural, vibrant pink tiger's eye does not occur in nature; it is a human-modified version of the natural chatoyant quartz. The effect is caused by the parallel orientation of the fibers.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the characteristic 'moving' band of light (chatoyancy) and the distinct fibrous texture clearly visible under the polish. Natural stones are usually golden-brown or blue.
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