metamorphic
Tiger's Eye
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) replacing Crocidolite
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden-yellow to red-brown, displaying strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect). Luster: Silky. Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71.
- Hardness
- 7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Golden-yellow to red-brown, displaying strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect). Luster: Silky. Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline quartz). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a pseudomorph when quartz replaces fibrous blue crocidolite (asbestos) through hydrothermal processes, leaving the fibrous structure intact which gives it chatoyancy, stained golden-yellow by limonite or iron oxides.
Uses & applications
Popular gemstone used in lapidary work, cabochons, beads, jewelry, carved figurines, and decorative ornamental items. Also popular with rock collectors.
Geological facts
Tiger's Eye demonstrates a unique phenomenon called chatoyancy, where light reflects off the fibrous parallel inclusion layers, mimicking a cat's eye or tiger's eye. Related stones include Hawk's Eye (blue) and Pietersite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive silky, golden-brown silky luster and optical chatoyant bands that shift light when turned. Major sources include South Africa, Australia, India, Brazil, and the USA (California).
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