Mineral (Metamorphic pseudomorph)
Tiger's Eye
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions)
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Golden to red-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Golden to red-brown
- Luster
- Silky
Identified More mineral (metamorphic pseudomorph) →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7.0 (Mohs); Color: Golden to red-brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite (blue asbestos) through a process called pseudomorphism. As the quartz infiltrates the fibers, iron oxides stain the material golden-brown.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a semi-precious gemstone for jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular specimen for crystal collectors.
Geological facts
Tiger's eye exhibits a unique optical effect known as chatoyancy, where light reflects off the fibrous inclusions to create a band of light resembling a cat's eye. It is the traditional stone for the 9th wedding anniversary.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct golden-brown banding and chatoyant 'shimmer' when rotated under light. Major deposits are found in South Africa (Northern Cape Province), Western Australia, India, and Namibia.
More like this
Other mineral (metamorphic pseudomorph) specimens
Tiger's Eye (Polished Point/Tower)
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with included crocidolite fibers
Mineral (Metamorphic pseudomorph)
Tiger's Eye (Rough)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with fibrous crocidolite / Limonite inclusions
Mineral (Metamorphic pseudomorph)
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2 with iron inclusions)
metamorphic
Tiger's Eye (Mineral Collection)
Tiger's Eye (SiO2 with crocidolite inclusions)
mineral
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)
metamorphic
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2 with iron oxides)
metamorphic