mineral

Tumbled tiger’s-eye

Quartz variety, fibrous golden-brown SiO₂ (pseudomorphic quartz after crocidolite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; brown, gold, and black silky bands with chatoyancy; vitreous to silky luster, no obvious cleavage, trigonal quartz crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; brown, gold, and black silky bands with chatoyancy; vitreous to silky luster, no obvious cleavage, trigonal quartz crystal structure, specific gravity about 2.65.

Formation & geological history

Forms when crocidolite asbestos fibers are replaced by quartz during low-temperature silicification, commonly in iron-rich metamorphic rocks; major deposits are Precambrian-age material from South Africa and western Australia.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and polished collectibles; durable but less valuable than fine transparent gemstones.

Geological facts

The moving, cat’s-eye-like light band is caused by aligned fibers and is strongest when the stone is cut parallel to them. Brown-red varieties are called bull’s-eye or red tiger’s-eye; blue material is hawk’s-eye.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its silky, directional chatoyancy, parallel bands, rounded tumbled shape, and hardness that can scratch glass. Common sources include South Africa, Australia, India, Brazil, and Namibia.