mineral

Tiger's Eye

Silicon Dioxide (Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite), SiO2

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; golden-brown to yellow-brown color with bands of dark brown; silky to chatoyant luster; trigonal crystal system; specific gravity around 2.64 to 2.71.

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale; golden-brown to yellow-brown color with bands of dark brown; silky to chatoyant luster; trigonal crystal system; specific gravity around 2.64 to 2.71.

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz perpetually replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite (blue asbestos) as it alters, preserving the fibrous structure.

Uses & applications

Widely used in gemstone jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Tiger's eye exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called chatoyancy, which gives it a moving cat's-eye reflection reminiscent of a tiger's gaze.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinct golden-brown stripes and silky chatoyant sheen when polished; commonly found in South Africa, Western Australia, and the USA.