mineral

Tiger's Eye

Quartz pseudomorph after Crocidolite (SiO2 with Fe oxide inclusions)

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).

Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale
Color: Golden yellow to reddish-brown and dark blue/black bands
Luster: Silky to vitreous

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.

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Mineral