mineral
Tiger's Eye
Silicon dioxide with crocidolite inclusions (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with a silky luster, trigonal crystal system, and chatoyant optical effect.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, golden-brown to yellow-brown color with a silky luster, trigonal crystal system, and chatoyant optical effect.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a pseudomorph when quartz replaces fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) during hydrothermal alteration of iron-rich sediments.
Uses & applications
Widely used in ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons for jewelry, and as a popular collector's mineral specimen.
Geological facts
The distinctive moving band of light is called chatoyancy, caused by the parallel fibrous structure reflecting light.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its golden-brown stripes and silky cat-eye sheen. Major deposits are found in South Africa and Western Australia.
