mineral
Tiger’s eye beads
Tiger’s eye (quartz variety), SiO₂, with pseudomorphic fibrous crocidolite/goethite inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 6.5–7; golden-brown to mahogany color, vitreous to silky luster, opaque, and chatoyant (cat’s-eye banding) when polished. These are rounded, drilled, human-processed beads rather than a raw specimen.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 6.5–7; golden-brown to mahogany color, vitreous to silky luster, opaque, and chatoyant (cat’s-eye banding) when polished. These are rounded, drilled, human-processed beads rather than a raw specimen.
Formation & geological history
Forms when asbestos-like crocidolite fibers in quartz are replaced by silica and partly oxidized to iron oxides; commonly associated with Precambrian rocks, especially South African deposits. Geological formation is generally linked to ancient Proterozoic hydrothermal and weathering processes.
Uses & applications
Used for ornamental beads, cabochons, carvings, and jewelry; polished material is inexpensive and widely available.
Geological facts
Its moving band of reflected light is called chatoyancy and results from aligned fibers. Blue “hawk’s-eye” may represent an earlier, less oxidized stage of the same process.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the silky, mobile golden stripe, brown-gold color, opaque quartz-like hardness, and lack of cleavage; common sources include South Africa, Western Australia, India, and Thailand. Test cautiously because drilling and polish obscure natural texture.
