Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive or fibrous habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with inclusions of crocidolite (riebeckite)
Formation Process
Pseudomorphous replacement where silica gradually replaces fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) while maintaining the fibrous structure
About This Crystal
The pendant contains small, polished chip-like fragments of chatoyant golden-brown stone suspended or encased inside a glass-faced or resin capsule setting. The stones display characteristic silky golden-brown to dark brown bands with shimmering light reflection.
Physical Characteristics
Gold-brown, yellow-brown to brownish-red body color; white streak; fibrous aggregate habit; distinct cleavage is absent due to microcrystalline quartz structure; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity around 2.64 to 2.71; brittle tenacity with silky to vitreous luster
Optical Properties
Uniaxial positive, refractive index of 1.544-1.553, displays strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) caused by the parallel fibrous structure reflecting light
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Western Australia, USA, Canada, India, and Brazil
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7 for the quartz component, making it durable for daily jewelry wear with good toughness due to its fibrous interlocking structure
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh acids, prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading, and extreme thermal shock
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available; value is determined by the quality of chatoyancy, depth of color, and lack of dark patches; generally inexpensive in tumbled or chip form
Special Characteristics
Prominent chatoyancy (shimmering optical band of light moving across the surface) resulting from fibrous pseudomorphism
Lore & History
Historically used as an amulet against curses and ill-wishes by ancient Romans and Egyptians. In modern crystal healing, it is associated with the solar plexus chakra, enhancing personal power, focus, courage, and grounding (note: these are traditional beliefs, not scientific claims)