Blue Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye (Crocidolite pseudomorph) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Ornamental Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal, massive pseudomorph habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with inclusions of riebeckite/crocidolite
Formation Process
Pseudomorphic replacement where quartz replaces fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) under hydrothermal and weathering conditions
About This Crystal
Spherical polished beads displaying a deep dark blue to slate grey body color with characteristic silky chatoyant bands that shimmer across the surface as light moves
Physical Characteristics
Dark blue to grey-blue body color with white or light blue chatoyant flashes, white streak, fibrous fracture, specific gravity around 2.64-2.71, and brittle tenacity
Optical Properties
Singly refractive aggregate appearance with strong chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) caused by the parallel alignment of microscopic fibrous inclusions
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
South Africa, Western Australia, USA, Canada, India
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 7, good durability for jewelry wear though prone to scratching if stored improperly
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, prolonged direct sunlight, and ultrasonic cleaners
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon depending on color saturation; widely affordable and popular for bead bracelets and carvings
Special Characteristics
Pronounced chatoyancy (silky sheen moving across the surface) due to parallel fibrous micro-inclusions of altered crocidolite
Lore & History
Traditionally associated with calmness, communication, and protection; linked by crystal practitioners to the throat chakra, though these are cultural beliefs rather than scientific claims