Rock Identifier
Polished brown stone, possibly tiger’s eye (Uncertain from the image; possibly quartz-rich tiger’s eye (SiO₂)) — mineral
mineral

Polished brown stone, possibly tiger’s eye

Uncertain from the image; possibly quartz-rich tiger’s eye (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The smooth, glossy brown piece appears tumbled or polished; its small size and lighting obscure banding and other diagnostic features. Tiger’s eye has Mohs hardness 6.5–7, a vitreous luster, and fibrous quartz structure.

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Physical properties

The smooth, glossy brown piece appears tumbled or polished; its small size and lighting obscure banding and other diagnostic features. Tiger’s eye has Mohs hardness 6.5–7, a vitreous luster, and fibrous quartz structure.

Formation & geological history

If tiger’s eye, it forms when quartz replaces crocidolite fibers during alteration of iron-rich rock; such deposits are commonly associated with Precambrian geology.

Uses & applications

Polished tiger’s eye is used in beads, cabochons, and decorative objects; common pieces have modest value.

Geological facts

Tiger’s eye is recognized by its shifting, silky band of reflected light (chatoyancy), which is not clearly visible here.

Field identification & locations

The image alone is insufficient for a reliable identification. Check for moving chatoyancy under a point light; without it, the stone may be another brown mineral or polished rock.