gemstone
Tiger's Eye
SiO2 (Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with chatoyant (silky) luster, trigonal crystal system, and specific gravity around 2.64-2.71.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with chatoyant (silky) luster, trigonal crystal system, and specific gravity around 2.64-2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz chemically replaces the blue asbestos mineral crocidolite, preserving its fibrous structure over millions of years in sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in jewelry, cabochons, ornamental carvings, and appreciated by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
The distinctive moving band of light, known as chatoyancy, is caused by parallel quartz fibers reflecting light.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its fibrous golden-yellow stripes and silky chatoyancy; primarily mined in South Africa and Western Australia.
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