Rock Identifier
Tumbled brown stone, likely tiger’s-eye or jasper (Quartz-rich microcrystalline silica, likely SiO₂ (possible tiger’s-eye; identification uncertain from image)) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled brown stone, likely tiger’s-eye or jasper

Quartz-rich microcrystalline silica, likely SiO₂ (possible tiger’s-eye; identification uncertain from image)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small polished pebble with brown, olive, and dark bands, opaque to weakly translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. Likely hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; specific gravity approximately 2.6–2.7.

Identified More mineral
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Physical properties

Small polished pebble with brown, olive, and dark bands, opaque to weakly translucent, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. Likely hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; specific gravity approximately 2.6–2.7.

Formation & geological history

Tiger’s-eye forms when fibrous crocidolite is pseudomorphed by quartz during hydrothermal alteration; jasper forms from silica-rich replacement or sedimentation. Common specimens are Precambrian to younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and inexpensive polished stones; rarely used industrially because pieces are small and decorative.

Geological facts

A chatoyant tiger’s-eye shows a moving silky band when rotated under light; this specimen appears banded but lacks clearly visible chatoyancy.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in South Africa, Western Australia, India, Brazil, and the United States. Confirm with a strong light for chatoyancy and a hardness test against glass; avoid scratching the polished surface.