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 incorrect

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.

Identified September 28, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.