mineral
Tiger's Eye
Quartz pseudomorph after Crocidolite (SiO2 with Fe oxide inclusions)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Golden yellow to reddish-brown and dark blue/black bands. Luster: Silky to vitreous. Crystal system: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz aggregate). Displays strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Golden yellow to reddish-brown and dark blue/black bands
- Luster
- Silky to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale. Color: Golden yellow to reddish-brown and dark blue/black bands. Luster: Silky to vitreous. Crystal system: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz aggregate). Displays strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect).
Formation & geological history
Metamorphic or low-grade hydrothermal alteration of crocidolite (blue asbestos) fibers, which are replaced by silica (quartz) while retaining the original fibrous structure. Major deposits are in South Africa, Australia, India, and Brazil.
Uses & applications
Popular gemstone used for lapidary work, cabochons, carvings, beads, jewelry, and decorative objects.
Geological facts
The shimmering 'cat's eye' effect is called chatoyancy. When iron is preserved in an unoxidized or partially oxidized state, it displays blue bands known as Hawk's Eye or Falcon's Eye.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive chatoyant silky luster and alternating golden-brown and dark fibrous bands. Softly rounded or tumbled/carved cubes like this are common in collector sets.
