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, silky luster, and trigonal crystal structure. It exhibits a distinct chatoyant light effect.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color, silky luster, and trigonal crystal structure. It exhibits a distinct chatoyant light effect.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz concurrently replaces fibrous crocidolite asbestos, typically in metamorphic environments involving iron-rich silica solutions.
Uses & applications
Widely used for making polished beads, cabochons for jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Tiger's eye is a classic example of chatoyancy, an optical reflectance effect resembling a cat's eye. Historically, Roman soldiers wore it to protect themselves in battle.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its golden-brown bands and silky moving light reflection. Major deposits are found in South Africa, Australia, India, and the USA.
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