mineral
Polished tiger’s-eye cabochon
Tiger’s eye, mainly fibrous quartz (SiO₂) pseudomorphically replacing crocidolite; commonly associated with iron oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; golden-brown to dark brown chatoyant bands, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no obvious cleavage. The polished surface shows a silky reflective band that moves with the light (chatoyancy); specific gravity is approximately 2.64–2.71.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; golden-brown to dark brown chatoyant bands, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no obvious cleavage. The polished surface shows a silky reflective band that moves with the light (chatoyancy); specific gravity is approximately 2.64–2.71.
Formation & geological history
Forms when quartz replaces fibrous riebeckite/crocidolite during low-temperature alteration, with oxidation producing its golden-brown color. Major deposits occur in Precambrian rocks, especially South Africa and Western Australia.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochon jewelry, beads, carvings, paperweights, and ornamental objects; it is valued primarily as a decorative gemstone.
Geological facts
Its cat’s-eye effect results from parallel mineral fibers or channels reflecting light. Blue-gray material is called hawk’s-eye, while red varieties are commonly called red tiger’s-eye.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its brown-gold parallel bands and mobile, silky light streak; it is opaque and should not show transparent quartz-like clarity. Common sources include South Africa, Australia, India, Brazil, and the United States.
