Rock Identifier
Tiger's Eye (Silicon dioxide with crocidolite inclusions (SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Tiger's Eye

Silicon dioxide with crocidolite inclusions (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-yellow to brown color with chatoyant luster, trigonal crystal system, and specific gravity of 2.64-2.71.

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Physical properties

Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-yellow to brown color with chatoyant luster, trigonal crystal system, and specific gravity of 2.64-2.71.

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz pseudomorphs after crocidolite, replacing the fibrous blue asbestos mineral with silica while retaining its fibrous structure.

Uses & applications

Widely used in cabochons, beaded jewelry, ornamental carvings, and holistic crystal collections.

Geological facts

Tiger's eye exhibits a captivating optical phenomenon called chatoyancy, creating a moving band of light reminiscent of a cat's eye.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive golden-brown stripes and silky, shimmering light reflection; primarily sourced from South Africa and Western Australia.