Mineral (Metamorphic pseudomorph)
Tiger's Eye (Polished Point/Tower)
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with included crocidolite fibers
Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden brown, earthy yellow, and dark brown. Luster: Vitreous to silky. Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Golden brown, earthy yellow, and dark brown
- Luster
- Vitreous to silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden brown, earthy yellow, and dark brown. Luster: Vitreous to silky. Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the pseudomorphism of crocidolite (blue asbestos) into quartz. As quartz replaces the fibers, the original fibrous structure is preserved, creating chatoyancy. They are primarily found in metamorphic iron formations, with some deposits dating back over 2 billion years.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons and beads), ornamental carvings, and 'holistic' or meditation tools (crystal towers). It is also a popular collector's mineral.
Geological facts
Tiger’s Eye displays a unique optical effect known as chatoyancy, caused by light reflecting off the parallel fibers within the stone. If the transition process is incomplete, it forms a blue version known as Hawk's Eye.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'shifting' light bands (chatoyancy) when tilted under focused light. Common locations include South Africa (Northern Cape), Australia, Myanmar, India, and Namibia. Collectors look for high luster and sharp, distinct golden bands.
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Other mineral (metamorphic pseudomorph) specimens
Tiger's Eye
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with Iron Oxide inclusions)
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
Goethite pseudomorph after Pyrite
Goethite (FeO(OH)) pseudomorph after Pyrite (FeS2)
mineral
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)
mineral
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz (SiO2) after Crocidolite
mineral