Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye · Semi-Precious Gemstone and Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive to fibrous habit
Mineral Group
Silicates, Tectosilicates
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with inclusions of crocidolite amphibole)
Formation Process
Pseudomorphic replacement process where quartz replaces original crocidolite asbestos fibers while preserving the fibrous structure, a low-temperature hydrothermal or metamorphic process
About This Crystal
An opaque, polished cabochon displaying a golden-brown to yellow-brown body color with silky luster, characterized by a distinct luminous band of light moving across the surface due to chatoyancy
Physical Characteristics
Golden-brown to yellow-brown color, white streak, fibrous habit, no true cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity of 2.64-2.71, brittle tenacity, non-magnetic, not fluorescent
Optical Properties
Doubly refractive with a refractive index of approximately 1.544-1.553, strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) caused by the parallel arrangement of fine fibrous inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Western Australia, USA, Canada, Brazil, India, China; forms in metamorphic rocks via pseudomorphous replacement
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7 for the quartz component (though slightly variable due to fibrous structure and alteration), good durability, suitable for rings, pendants, and other jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged exposure to strong acids, store separately from softer materials, generally stable in normal light
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available, value depends on chatoyancy sharpness, color saturation, symmetry of the cabochon cut, and lack of surface flaws; relatively affordable pricing
Special Characteristics
Exhibits strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) resulting from parallel fibrous inclusions reflecting light as a sharp line, formed via pseudomorphism of crocidolite by quartz
Lore & History
Historically used as an amulet against curses and ill-wishes by ancient Egyptians and Roman soldiers for protection in battle; traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra, courage, grounding, and mental clarity in crystal healing lore