gemstone

Tiger’s-eye

Quartz variety, SiO₂, with fibrous crocidolite pseudomorphed by quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; brown to golden bands with silky chatoyancy, vitreous-to-waxy luster, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and no obvious cleavage. The specimen appears polished or tumbled and may include darker iron-oxide-rich zones.

Identified September 3, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when quartz replaces blue asbestos (crocidolite) fibers during alteration, commonly in Precambrian metamorphic rocks; major deposits occur in South Africa, Western Australia, India, and Namibia.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornamental objects, and inexpensive jewelry; it has little industrial use beyond decorative stone.

Geological facts

Its moving cat’s-eye effect results from aligned microscopic fibers reflecting light. Golden tiger’s-eye commonly grades into red “bull’s-eye” or blue “hawk’s-eye.”

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its brown-gold parallel bands and sharp, mobile chatoyant stripe under directional light; distinguish it from brown glass by its hardness and natural fibrous pattern. The background pieces appear to be assorted tumbled stones.