PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- GROUP Silicates - tectosilicates
- COMPOSITION SiO2
- COLOR Yellow-brown
- CRYSTALLINE SYSTEM Hexagonal / trigonal
- CRYSTALLINE HABIT Fibrous
- HARDNESS 7
- FRACTURE Conchoidal
- EXFOLIATION Null
- GLOSS Vitreous
- STRIP White
- TRANSPARENCY Translucent
- SPECIFIC GRAVITY 2.7
MINERALOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The tiger's eye is a variety of quartz that presents the "chatoyance" effect, vertical bands with reflections reminiscent of a cats-eye. This effect is produced by the orientation of the fibrous inclusions that the mineral contains.
In the eye of the tiger the fibers of crocidolite (blue asbestos) were altered and transformed into iron oxides, which were later replaced by silica.
Deposits: South Africa, United States, India, Mexico and Australia.
THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES
The tiger's eye is considered a stone of creativity, strength and balance. It is said that it represents the union between the energy of the Sun and that of the Earth.
Traditionally the tiger eye has been considered a protective stone. It favors rooting and the manifestation of the will. Helps raise self-esteem and mood. It is also often associated with prosperity.
