Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive or pseudomorphous habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with inclusions of crocidolite
Formation Process
Pseudomorphous replacement of crocidolite asbestos by silica-rich solutions
About This Crystal
Tumbled stone featuring a smooth, polished surface with golden-brown and dark brown bands showing a distinct chatoyant silky sheen.
Physical Characteristics
Golden-brown to yellow-brown with dark bands; white streak; no true cleavage; conchoidal fracture; specific gravity 2.64-2.71; brittle tenacity; inert under UV light
Optical Properties
Refractive index 1.544-1.553; doubly refractive; exhibits strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect) due to parallel fibrous structure
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Western Australia, USA, Brazil, India
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 6.5 to 7; good toughness and durability; suitable for most jewelry applications
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to strong acids; store away from harder gems to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Common; inexpensive and widely available; value determined by chatoyancy quality, color saturation, and lack of flaws
Special Characteristics
Exhibits prominent chatoyancy (moving band of light) resulting from the parallel alignment of fibrous riebeckite inclusions replaced by quartz
Lore & History
Historically used as a protective talisman against curses and ill-wishes by ancient civilizations; traditionally associated with the solar plexus chakra, courage, and grounding energy in crystal lore