mineral
Tiger's Eye
Silicon Dioxide with Crocidolite, SiO2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-yellow to brown color, silky luster, and fibrous crystal structure with chatoyancy.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-yellow to brown color, silky luster, and fibrous crystal structure with chatoyancy.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a pseudomorph when quartz replaces fibrous crocidolite asbestos through hydrothermal activity in sedimentary rock formations.
Uses & applications
Widely used in ornamental carvings, cabochons, polished towers, and jewelry making.
Geological facts
Its distinctive moving cat-eye effect, known as chatoyancy, is caused by the parallel alignment of fibrous inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its golden-brown stripes and silky light reflection; primarily sourced from South Africa and Western Australia.
