Tigers Eye, also sometimes known as Tiger Eye, is the original chatoyant gemstone. Chatoyancy is an optical illusion which is a result of a changeable shimmering silky lustre caused as light is reflected from the inside of the gemstone. The word Chatoyancy originates from the French meaning 'cat's eye'.
The name Tigers Eye came about because of its traditional brown, orange and black colouring which was thought to closely resemble the colours of a Tiger's eye. Tigers Eye is also available in red, black and blue however the blue variety is more more correctly known as Hawk's Eye and its colour is completely natural whereas the red and black varieties obtain their colour through the heat treatment of the original brown gemstone.
In recent years there has been some concern about asbestos fibres in Tigers Eye which although true, are well embedded and pose little or no threat to the wearer. This stone began its life as the fibrous blue mineral called Crocidolite (better known as asbestos) which is made up of iron and sodium. Over time as Quartz became embedded between the fibres of the Crocidolite, a transformation took place which resulted in either Hawks Eye or the more traditional brown Tigers Eye. During this transformation which took place over thousands of years, the asbestos was completely dissolved and the Quartz takes on the fibrous formations which creates the parallel lines within the stone. It is also the cause of the play of light and movement known as chatoyancy.
Like all gemstones which resemble eyes when cut or polished, it is thought to be a powerful protective amulet. Roman soldiers wore it because they believed it was an all seeing eye hence it offered good protection and even today it is used for psychic protection.
Used in crystal healing to release anxiety, fear and obsessiveness, Tigers Eye can also make emotions become more logical. It is frequently recommended by crystal healers as a good gemstone for business and achieving clarity. It symbolizes willpower, confidence and assurance and is also said to clear visual disturbances and provide protection during travel. It has the ability to calm the emotions relieving obstinate and stubborn behaviour hence providing flexibility. It strengthens energy and provides courage and is also said to aid its wearer in reducing stress and allows the mind to clearly define relationships with others.
Tigers Eye is one of the most desirable gemstones found in Western Australia and it's found in the rugged Hamersley Ranges of the Pilbara region. This is an area that is extremely rich in iron ore with many huge mines currently in operation.
South Africa is one of the main mining areas for Tigers Eye and most of the finest specimens come from Griqualand West.
The gemstone for the ninth wedding anniversary, it is graded 7 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness which makes it ideal for use in jewellery.
Further reading:
Tigers Eye
Tigers Eye
Tigers Eye
Our collection of Tigers Eye jewellery
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