gemstone

Tiger's Eye

Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 6, 2026More gemstone →

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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.