mineral
Tiger's Eye
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite), $SiO_2$
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from golden-brown to yellow-brown, silky to vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system (microcrystalline quartz), specific gravity of 2.64 to 2.71.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, colors ranging from golden-brown to yellow-brown, silky to vitreous luster, trigonal crystal system (microcrystalline quartz), specific gravity of 2.64 to 2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz chemically replaces the fibrous blue mineral crocidolite (asbestos) over millions of years, maintaining the fibrous structure while oxidizing the iron.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry, cabochons, beads, ornamental carvings, and holistic crystal healing.
Geological facts
Tiger's Eye is a classic example of pseudomorphism, where one mineral takes the exact shape and form of another. It displays a distinct chatoyant effect (cat's eye effect) caused by the parallel alignment of embedded quartz fibers.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic silky golden-brown bands and moving line of light when rotated. Found primarily in South Africa, Australia, India, and the USA.
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