Tiger's Eye

Tiger's Eye is a captivating semi-precious gemstone, a variety of quartz, enchanting with its unique silky shimmer, known as the 'cat's eye' effect (or chatoyancy). This astonishing optical phenomenon arises from parallel-oriented amphibole fibers (originally the mineral riebeckite, also known as crocidolite), which were gradually replaced by quartz over time but retained their fibrous structure.

The stone is opaque, and its characteristic golden-yellow and rich brown stripes, reminiscent of a tiger's coat, are caused by inclusions of iron hydroxides (goethite) between the quartz fibers. These warm hues and silky luster make Tiger's Eye exceptionally popular in jewelry.

The most significant deposits of Tiger's Eye are found in South Africa, but it is also mined in Western Australia, India, Namibia, the USA, and Myanmar (Burma).

Thanks to its beauty, distinctive optical effect, and sufficient hardness, Tiger's Eye is widely used for crafting cabochons, beads, inlays for rings, earrings, and pendants, as well as for creating small decorative figures and interior items. Its unique appearance makes each piece one-of-a-kind. While Tiger's Eye is sometimes attributed properties of imparting confidence and aiding focus, its primary value lies in its natural beauty and unique visual effect, making it desirable for both jewelers and mineral collectors.