Metamorphic mineral
Tiger's Eye (variations include Blue or Hawk's Eye)
Silicon Dioxide with Crocidolite inclusions (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale. Color: Golden yellow to deep brown (Blue/Green in Hawk's eye variants). Luster: Silky. Crystal System: Trigonal (fibrous). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71.
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5–7 on Mohs scale. Color: Golden yellow to deep brown (Blue/Green in Hawk's eye variants). Luster: Silky. Crystal System: Trigonal (fibrous). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a pseudomorph where quartz replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite (blue asbestos). Over millions of years, the iron within the crocidolite oxidizes to create the signature brown/gold tones, or remains unoxidized for blue/green tones.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry as cabochons, beads, and carvings. Also popular for metaphysical collecting and minor ornamental industrial use.
Geological facts
It exhibits a unique optical effect known as chatoyancy, or the 'cat's-eye effect,' where light reflects off the fibrous inclusions to create a moving band of light. Historically, it was worn by Roman soldiers for protection in battle.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct chatoyant silky luster and undulating bands of darker and lighter color. Commonly found in South Africa, Western Australia, India, and Myanmar (Burma). Collect from rocky outcrops or as river-tumbled stones in source regions.
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