mineral

Tumbled tiger’s eye

Quartz variety with chatoyant fibrous inclusions, commonly pseudomorphs after crocidolite (riebeckite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Golden-brown bands with silky, moving chatoyancy and a vitreous-to-silky luster; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, trigonal quartz crystal structure, no cleavage. The pieces appear polished and tumbled.

Identified October 14, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Golden-brown bands with silky, moving chatoyancy and a vitreous-to-silky luster; Mohs hardness 6.5–7, trigonal quartz crystal structure, no cleavage. The pieces appear polished and tumbled.

Formation & geological history

Forms as silica replaces fibrous crocidolite during alteration, preserving its texture and producing the characteristic reflective bands. Major deposits occur in ancient metamorphosed iron formations, notably South Africa; the exact age depends on the deposit.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and inexpensive jewelry or décor; it has little industrial use.

Geological facts

Its bright band of reflected light is called chatoyancy, from the French for “cat’s eye.”

Field identification & locations

Look for golden-brown parallel bands and a bright, silky light streak that shifts as the stone moves; common sources include South Africa, Australia, and India.