mineral
Tiger’s eye rough
Tiger’s eye, a chatoyant variety of quartz (SiO₂) containing fibrous iron oxides, chiefly goethite and/or hematite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectGolden-brown color with silky bands and chatoyancy; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, vitreous to silky luster, trigonal quartz structure, no prominent cleavage. The specimen appears rough and partly fractured; its fibrous bands are not clearly visible in the photo.
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Physical properties
Golden-brown color with silky bands and chatoyancy; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, vitreous to silky luster, trigonal quartz structure, no prominent cleavage. The specimen appears rough and partly fractured; its fibrous bands are not clearly visible in the photo.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica replaces fibrous crocidolite in a process called pseudomorphism, with iron oxides producing its yellow-brown color. Deposits are commonly associated with ancient metamorphic rocks; geological ages vary by locality.
Uses & applications
Cut and polished into cabochons, beads, carvings, and ornamental objects; also collected as rough material.
Geological facts
Tiger’s eye’s moving, luminous stripe is caused by light reflecting from aligned fibers—a phenomenon called chatoyancy.
Field identification & locations
Look for golden-brown parallel bands and a silky sheen that shifts with viewing angle; major sources include South Africa, Australia, India, and Namibia. A photo alone cannot confirm the identification.
