Mineral Information
Origin: S. Africa
Mineral Species: Quartz
Mineral Group: Silicates
Chemical Formula: SiO2
Hardness: 7
Crystal System: Trigonal
Colour: Gold to gold-blue, usually with chatoyancy.
Typical Appearance: Tiger’s eye is a quartz, which displays chatoyancy, or a “cat’s eye” effect. For more than 100 years it has been believed to form when parallel veins of crocidolite (blue asbestos) are metamorphically altered to iron oxides (giving it its gold colour), which is then replaced by quartz. In the case of blue tiger’s eye (also know as hawk’s eye or falcon’s eye), the crocidolite is not altered before the quartz replacement, and retains its original blue colour.
In 2003, Heaney and Fisher argued that tiger's eye is not a replacement mineral but "classically exemplifies synchronous mineral growth through a crack-seal vein-filling process." However, you’ll find that most mineralogy books stick to the original explanation. Both varieties are very popular in jewellery making and gemstone carving.
Birthstone: Leo
Chakra Alignment: Solar Plexus, Sacral and Root
Element: Fire
Origin of Name & Mythology: From the chatoyancy, or 'cat’s eye' effect.
Tiger's Eye is a stone of confidence and power that inspires brave, but never foolhardy, behaviour. It is believed to give us the strength, courage and cunning of a tiger.
All types of Tiger's Eye are believed to be beneficial for the digestive system.
Tiger's Eye / Gold Tiger's Eye
Long considered a protective stone and carried as an amulet or talisman, Gold Tigers Eye also promotes creativity, ambition, dynamic energy and can be used to combat depression. It is considered the universal 'luck' stone and in some systems is reputed to attract money.
Blue Tiger's Eye
Also known as falcon's eye. In the Middle Ages blue tiger eye was worn as an amulet against witchcraft, demons and the evil eye. It remains a powerful protection stone. Blue tiger eye is calming and de-stressing, can help us to see our life plan and makes us less prone to mood fluctuations.
Red Tiger's Eye
As it is dyed, the attributes of red tiger's eye are much the same as gold. In addition, because of the red colouration, it can be used to overcome lethargy and inspire motivation.
