Description
This listing is for a genuine A-grade Golden Tigers Eye crystal, a highly polished specimen carefully chosen for its shimmering optical qualities and natural beauty. The photographs show the exact piece you will receive, with a scale cube = 1 cm provided for accurate sizing. All of our crystals are 100% genuine specimens and are supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete assurance of quality and authenticity.
Golden Tigers Eye is one of the most sought-after members of the quartz family, admired for its captivating chatoyancy – the luminous “cat’s-eye” effect that appears to move across the surface of the stone when viewed under light. This striking optical effect is caused by fibrous inclusions of crocidolite that have been replaced by quartz and stained by iron oxide, creating the golden to honey-brown hues that define this gemstone.
Geological Context and Formation
Tigers Eye is a variety of microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), belonging to the trigonal crystal system. It forms through a pseudomorph process where crocidolite (a type of blue asbestos) is gradually replaced by silica while retaining its fibrous structure. During this replacement, iron oxide staining transforms the stone from its original blue-grey form into golden, brown, and honey-coloured shades.
The shimmering light effect, or chatoyancy, is a direct result of the fibrous quartz structure, which reflects and scatters light across the surface. This creates the silky luster and dynamic banding that makes Tigers Eye one of the most recognisable and desirable quartz varieties.
Golden Tigers Eye is typically found in metamorphic rocks, often associated with banded iron formations. Major sources of high-quality specimens include South Africa, Western Australia, and Namibia, with smaller deposits located in India and the USA. These geological environments are rich in iron and silica, providing the ideal conditions for the formation of this distinctive crystal.
Crystal Characteristics
- Mineral Type: Quartz (SiO₂)
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Colour: Golden-yellow, honey, and brown tones with shimmering bands
- Transparency: Opaque with a silky reflective surface
- Optical Effect: Chatoyancy (cat’s-eye effect caused by fibrous inclusions)
- Associated Minerals: Often occurs with hematite, jasper, and other iron-rich minerals
- Finish: A-grade polished specimen, chosen for clarity and brilliance
The polish enhances the crystal’s natural banding and shimmering effect, making the light appear to glide across the surface when moved in the hand. This high-grade finish highlights the finest qualities of the stone, ensuring it is both visually captivating and durable for display or collection.
Collector and Display Value
Golden Tigers Eye has long been valued both as a gemstone and as a collector’s crystal. Its unique optical properties set it apart from other members of the quartz family, making it a must-have for any serious crystal collection. The rich golden tones and shimmering surface make it a natural display piece, while its durability ensures it remains as striking in years to come as on the day it was discovered.
Specimens of this quality are highly desirable due to their vibrant colour and strong chatoyancy. This A-grade polished piece captures the essence of Tigers Eye, with bold golden reflections and striking natural banding. It is ideal for collectors, educators, or as a unique decorative piece showcasing the beauty of nature’s mineral artistry.
Every crystal we supply is hand-selected for quality, authenticity, and aesthetic appeal. Supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, this Golden Tigers Eye crystal is a genuine specimen, guaranteed to be a valuable addition to your collection or a meaningful natural gift.
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