mineral

Red Tiger's Eye

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Reddish-brown to mahogany; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Hexagonal (Trigonal); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71; Notable for chatoyancy (cat's eye effect).

Hardness: 6
Color: Reddish-brown to mahogany
Luster: Silky

Identified July 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz replaces crocidolite asbestos fibers through a process called pseudomorphism. The red color is typically created by lightning-strike heating or human-induced heat treatment of gold tiger's eye, which oxidizes the iron content into hematite.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry (beads, cabochons, rings), for carvings, and as a popular 'healing' crystal in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Red Tiger's Eye is also known as Bull's Eye. Unlike Golden Tiger's Eye, its red hue is almost always the result of oxidation of the iron minerals within the stone. It retains the same fiber-like structure that creates its signature shimmer.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct chatoyant 'shimmer' that moves when the stone is rotated. It is commonly found in South Africa, Australia, and Brazil. Collectors should look for vibrant bands of light and a smooth, waxy to silky polish.

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