Tiger's Eye Use Properties & Information
The enchanting tiger's eye stone practically doesn't need an introduction. Its mesmerizing chatoyance is a proper introduction that says volumes, as the stone has been a staple of gem collecting for a long time now. You've probably seen it a hundred times in orbs, display cases, carved into really cool animals, and so much more, right?
Yeah, it's a ubiquitous stone that appears in just about every collector's gem hoard. Collectors, enthusiasts, and jewelry lovers have seen this stone enough times by now, probably.
We can easily make a list of the reasons why it's so popular, but there's a brief rundown. Tiger's eye is not an uncommon stone at all, it cuts up well, has chatoyance, and has been used for jewelry or carvings well before modern times. That's the short and easy of it. So, in other words, you probably aren't going to stop seeing this stone. Plus, this stone doesn't really have any major industrial uses that we know of, so it's really just a celebrity in stripes at this point.
One unique aspect of the stone's history is its origin. For a long time, many mineralogists believed that the stone came about from polymorphism. For those who don't know, we'll break it down.
Tiger's eye is, technically, a variety of gold-brown quartz that has chatoyancy. Polymorphism, in short, is when a mineral takes over another, but the shape or formation is preserved. More technically, this is a change in chemicals over a period of time. That's still watering it down, but mineralogy is a complex science.
At any rate, tiger's eye was believed to have been quartz taking over crocidolite, but this has since been found out to not be the case. It turns out tiger's eye formed more in line with cracks and veins being filled in rather than polymorphism.
One popular variety of tiger's eye is tiger iron, which features strong hematite bands.
Metaphysical Properties of Tiger Eye
It is imperative to understand that the following claims on metaphysical properties, as are many in the metaphysical or crystal healing community, are not verified by science or healthcare professionals; one should not substitute professional care or treatment with the use of crystals; there is no scientific basis behind the claim that certain crystal formations or colors provide any benefit aside from the placebo effect; meditation, however, is known to have certain benefits (https://www.harvard.edu/in-focus/mindfulness-meditation/), but this should not be considered as an alternative or substitute or replacement for traditional, verified medical practices, and one should always seek help from medical experts for matters and affairs concerning health, this should not be considered an alternative to seeking professional medical or health advice, treatment, or expertise.
Crystal healers believe that tiger eye is an exceptional stone for governing matters of protection. Crystal healers believe it has a natural energy field that repels negativity and keeps the troubles of others from impacting your life. In this way, it is considered a true “Mind Your Business” stone, insulating you from outside drama.
Crystal healers believe when you are in the presence of a tiger eye stone, you will find that good luck is an ever-present source of power in your life. Crystal healers say that prosperity & opportunity comes to you through all available paths when using this stone, and it is said to assist in healing past emotional wounds and energy voids left by negative experiences (or associations) in a life journey. Crystal healers believe it is a stone revered by ancient civilizations for its magnificent stronghold in supernatural energy.
The Wrap Up
Tiger's eye is a beautiful stone that we love! It's quite common and is used all the time to make all sorts of wonderful carvings. Its use in jewelry can be especially pleasing with its chatoyance. Tiger's eye is a crystal that many love for a reason, after all.
Sources
https://www.mindat.org/min-10886.html
https://www.mindat.org/min-3960.html
Heaney, Peter J., and Donald M. Fisher. "New interpretation of the origin of tiger's-eye." Geology 31.4 (2003): 323-326.
Holden, Constance. "Tiger's eye: Looks are deceiving." Science 300.5617 (2003): 245.