Mineral
Red Tigers Eye (Bull's Eye)
SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange. Luster: Silky. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), formed as pseudomorph. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange
- Luster
- Silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep reddish-brown to burnt orange. Luster: Silky. Crystal structure: Hexagonal (trigonal), formed as pseudomorph. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 2.58-2.64.
Formation & geological history
Formed when crocidolite (blue asbestos) is replaced by silica (quartz) and undergoes natural or artificial heat treatment which oxidizes the iron within it, changing the golden color to red.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry making, carved into cabochon cuts to display the chatoyancy, also used for ornamental objects and tumbling stones.
Geological facts
Red tiger's eye is often a result of heat treatment applied to golden tiger's eye, although it can occasionally occur naturally from geothermal heat. The chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) is due to the parallel reflection of light on the fibrous structure.
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its reddish-brown color combined with a distinct chatoyant effect when turned in the light. Commonly sourced from South Africa. Look for the bands of shifting light.
