Tiger's Eye

Semi-Precious · Quartz Family

The stone of courage, willpower and clear-sighted perception.

• Courage
• Willpower
• Clarity
• Focus
• Balance
• Confidence

Tiger's eye is a chatoyant (cat's-eye effect) gemstone of silky golden-brown colour. It forms when crocidolite (blue asbestos) fibres are replaced by quartz while retaining the fibrous structure, creating the shimmering silky lustre called chatoyancy. Ancient Romans wore it engraved with their gods going into battle.

Healing

Depression, Indecision, Fear, Anxiety, Self-confidence, Willpower

Everyday uses

Prized decorative gemstone used in cabochons, rings, pendants, and ornamental objects. Used in Feng Shui as a wealth and protection stone placed near entrances. Historically used as a talisman for Roman soldiers — engraved with their gods for battle protection. Decorative inlay for knife handles, boxes, and luxury objects.

Spiritual meaning

Tiger's eye is the stone of willpower and clear perception. It integrates the polarities within us — the practical and the spiritual, fear and action — giving the courage to move through challenges. Particularly powerful for depression caused by indecision, self-doubt, or fear of failure.

Formation

Tiger's eye forms through a process called pseudomorphism — quartz gradually replaces the original crocidolite fibres parallel fibre by fibre, preserving the fibrous structure. The golden colour comes from iron oxide released during the replacement process.

Where it is found

The world's primary source is South Africa (Northern Cape). Other sources include Australia, India, USA, Canada, China, Brazil, and Namibia.

Zodiac

Leo, Capricorn, Gemini

Chinese element

Tiger, Horse, Rooster, Ox