gemstone
Tiger's Eye
Silicified Crocidolite Pseudomorph (SiO2 with iron oxides)
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow to reddish-brown; Luster: Silky to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71
- Hardness
- 7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Golden-yellow to reddish-brown
- Luster
- Silky to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Golden-yellow to reddish-brown; Luster: Silky to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Hexagonal (trigonal microcrystalline); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.64–2.71
Formation & geological history
Forms when quartz replaces the blue amphibole mineral crocidolite (asbestos) through a pseudomorphic process, with iron staining creating the golden hue. Most deposits originate from ancient precambrian banded iron formations.
Uses & applications
Widely used in lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons, beads, rings), carvings, ornamental objects, and crystal healing collections.
Geological facts
The optical effect seen in Tiger's Eye is called chatoyancy (cat's eye effect), which is caused by parallel fibrous structures reflecting light. When processed with acid, it can change color, and heating can turn golden tiger's eye red (Bull's Eye).
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive golden-brown parallel banding and silky, light-shifting chatoyant sheen when rotated under light. Major source locations include South Africa (Northern Cape), Australia, India, Thailand, and Brazil.
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