gemstone
Tiger's Eye
Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Golden yellow to brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Chatoyancy (cat's eye effect).
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Golden yellow to brown
- Luster
- Silky
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Golden yellow to brown; Luster: Silky; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (fibrous texture); Cleavage: None; Chatoyancy (cat's eye effect).
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in South Africa and Western Australia when quartz replaces crocidolite (blue asbestos) fibers through a process of pseudomorphism, where the original fibrous structure is preserved but the mineral is replaced by silica.
Uses & applications
Commonly used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a popular stone for collectors and metaphysical practitioners.
Geological facts
The striking chatoyancy of Tiger's Eye is caused by the parallel reflection of light off the internal fibrous structure. It is a 'pseudomorph,' meaning it has the chemical composition of quartz but the shape/form of the asbestos mineral it replaced.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the characteristic golden-brown bands and the 'moving' light effect (chatoyancy) when tilted. It is most abundantly found in Griqualand West, South Africa. It can be distinguished from cat's eye chrysoberyl by its lower hardness and specific gravity.
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