gemstone
Tiger's Eye
Silicon Dioxide (Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with distinct chatoyant bands, silky to vitreous luster, and a hexagonal crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with distinct chatoyant bands, silky to vitreous luster, and a hexagonal crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed when quartz progressively replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite, creating a pseudomorph through metasomatism.
Uses & applications
Widely used in making cabochons, beads, decorative carvings, and jewelry.
Geological facts
Tiger's eye exhibits a unique cat's-eye effect (chatoyancy) caused by parallel fibrous inclusions of altered amphibole fibers.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its golden-brown stripes and silky light reflection; primarily sourced from South Africa and Western Australia.
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