mineral

Tiger's Eye

Quartz pseudomorph after crocidolite (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness of 7, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with bands of dark brown and black, silky to vitreous luster, hexagonal (trigonal) crystal system, specific gravity of 2.64 to 2.71

Identified August 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness of 7, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with bands of dark brown and black, silky to vitreous luster, hexagonal (trigonal) crystal system, specific gravity of 2.64 to 2.71

Formation & geological history

Formed when quartz continuously replaces the fibrous mineral crocidolite (riebeckite) during metasomatism, preserving the fibrous structure.

Uses & applications

Commonly used in cabochons, beads, ornamental carvings, and jewelry.

Geological facts

Tiger's eye exhibits chatoyancy, a distinct optical reflectance effect that resembles the slit eye of a tiger as light catches the parallel fibrous structure.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive golden-brown stripes and silky chatoyant sheen. Major deposits are found in South Africa, Western Australia, and the USA.