mineral

Tiger’s eye beads

Tiger’s eye (quartz variety), SiO₂, with pseudomorphic fibrous crocidolite/goethite inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified September 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.