Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system, forming as a massive or pseudomorphic aggregate after crocidolite
Mineral Group
Silicates (Subgroup: Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide with inclusions of altered crocidolite/riebeckite)
Formation Process
Pseudomorphic replacement process where silica-rich solutions replace fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) while maintaining its fibrous structure, often occurring in metamorphic environments under moderate temperatures and pressures
About This Crystal
The specimen is a beaded stretch bracelet featuring polished spherical beads exhibiting rich golden-brown to dark brown and yellowish hues with characteristic parallel bands of silky chatoyancy, varying transparency from opaque to slightly translucent, and a vitreous to silky luster
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from golden yellow, yellow-brown, to deep brownish-red; white streak; no true cleavage due to massive quartz composition; conchoidal to uneven fracture; specific gravity around 2.64 to 2.71; brittle tenacity; insoluble in acids
Optical Properties
Refractive index of approximately 1.544 to 1.553, doubly refractive (uniaxial positive), displaying strong chatoyancy (cat's-eye effect) caused by the reflection of light from the parallel fibrous inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Western Australia, USA, Canada, India, Brazil, and China; forms in metamorphic rocks through the alteration of crocidolite
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, making it durable enough for everyday jewelry wear like rings and bracelets, though toughness can be fair to good depending on the integrity of the fibrous structure
Care & Maintenance
Clean safely using warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid harsh chemicals, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading, and ultrasonic or steam cleaners which can damage treated or fractured stones
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available; value is determined by the quality of chatoyancy, depth of color, symmetry of banding, and lack of matrix intrusions; affordable and widely used in commercial jewelry
Special Characteristics
Exhibits prominent chatoyancy (the moving silky line of light across the surface), pseudomorphism (replacing original fibrous asbestos mineral with quartz), and occasional multi-colored banding combining blue (Hawk's Eye) and red (Bull's Eye) varieties
Lore & History
Historically used as an amulet and talisman in ancient Roman and Egyptian civilizations to ward off curses, bad luck, and provide courage and protection; traditionally associated with the Solar Plexus chakra, promoting personal power, willpower, and grounding energy (note: these are traditional metaphysical beliefs and not scientific claims)