Tiger's Eye Bracelet (12mm)

Tiger's eye is a captivating gemstone known for its distinctive chatoyancy, which creates a shimmering effect resembling the eye of a tiger. Here's an overview of tiger's eye:

Characteristics

• Color: Tiger's eye typically exhibits golden to reddish-brown colors with a silky luster. It often has bands of yellow, brown, and sometimes red or blue hues, creating a striped or banded appearance.
• Chatoyancy: The most notable feature of tiger's eye is its chatoyancy, also known as the cat's eye effect. This phenomenon is caused by parallel fibrous inclusions that reflect light, producing a luminous band across the surface when the stone is moved.
• Chemical Composition: Tiger's eye is a form of quartz, specifically a variety of macrocrystalline quartz called chalcedony, with additional minerals such as crocidolite fibers. Its chemical formula is SiO₂.
• Hardness: Tiger's eye has a Mohs hardness of around 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable for jewelry and ornamental use.

Sources

Tiger's eye is found in various regions around the world, including South Africa, Australia, Brazil, India, Myanmar, Namibia, and the United States (particularly in South Carolina). Different sources may produce variations in color and banding patterns.

Appearance and Uses

• Appearance: Tiger's eye has a smooth and polished surface, showcasing its chatoyant effect and distinctive bands. Its golden to brown colors and shimmering appearance make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items.
• Jewelry: Tiger's eye is commonly used in cabochon cuts for rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. Its unique optical effect adds depth and interest to jewelry designs.
• Decorative Objects: The gemstone is also used in carvings, beads, and figurines due to its aesthetic appeal and symbolic meanings.

Metaphysical Properties

Tiger's eye is associated with several metaphysical properties and beliefs:

• Protection: It is believed to offer protection against negative energies, psychic attacks, and ill wishes. Tiger's eye is often worn as a talisman for protection.
• Courage and Confidence: The stone is associated with courage, self-confidence, and empowerment. It is said to boost willpower, determination, and assertiveness.
• Grounding and Stability: Tiger's eye's grounding energy helps anchor and stabilize emotions, promoting a sense of calmness, balance, and focus.
• Clarity and Insight: Some believe that tiger's eye enhances mental clarity, intuition, and decision-making abilities. It may also help overcome doubts and fears.

Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean tiger's eye with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners that may damage the stone or its polish.
• Handling: Handle tiger's eye with care to prevent scratches or chips. Store it separately from harder gemstones to avoid potential abrasions.

Tiger's eye's unique chatoyancy, earthy colors, and metaphysical properties make it a beloved gemstone for both aesthetic and spiritual purposes. Whether worn for its beauty or its energetic qualities, tiger's eye adds a touch of mystique and empowerment to any jewelry or collection.