Tiger's Eye
Quartz var. Tiger's Eye (Pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite) · Semi-Precious Gemstone
Crystal System
Trigonal crystal system; exhibits a massive, fibrous, and chatoyant habit, often occurring in veins.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate group)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with fibrous inclusions of Altered Crocidolite/Goethite FeO(OH)
Formation Process
Pseudomorphic formation: Quartz replaces fibrous crocidolite (blue asbestos) via a hydrothermal process, while iron staining from goethite provides the yellow-brown color.
About This Crystal
An opaque, chatoyant stone with a waxy to vitreous luster. This specimen appears as a tumbled, dark golden-brown stone with internal fibrous banding that creates a 'cat's eye' effect when moved under light.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Golden yellow to deep brown; Streak: Yellow-brown; Fracture: Conchoidal to splintery; Specific Gravity: 2.64-2.71; Non-fluorescent under UV light.
Optical Properties
Displays distinct chatoyancy (cat's eye effect) due to parallel fibrous structure; Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553; Uniaxial positive; Opaque to translucent on thin edges.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Mainly South Africa (Northern Cape), Australia, Myanmar, India, and Namibia. Best formed in iron-rich sedimentary formations.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. Toughness is good due to the fibrous structure, making it highly durable for daily jewelry wear.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners which may penetrate fibrous gaps. Store separately to prevent scratching softer stones.
Rarity & Value
Common and widely available. Value is determined by the sharpness of the chatoyant 'eye,' color saturation, and lack of dull matrix; generally very affordable.
Special Characteristics
Strong chatoyancy caused by the reflection of light off the internal fibrous inclusions; when heated, it turns red (known as Ox Eye or Red Tiger's Eye).
Lore & History
Historically used by Roman soldiers for protection in battle. In traditional lore, it is considered a stone of courage, willpower, and solar energy, often associated with the Solar Plexus chakra.