Where is Tiger's Eye and Onyx found?
Tiger's Eye (fibrous chalcedony, a variety of quartz) and Onyx (chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz)
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Open the appTiger's Eye and Onyx occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Tiger's Eye and Onyx
Tiger's Eye: South Africa
The primary source of high-quality Tiger's Eye, particularly in the Griqualand West region.
Tiger's Eye: Australia
Significant deposits found in Western Australia.
Tiger's Eye: India
Known for some occurrences of Tiger's Eye.
Tiger's Eye: Myanmar (Burma)
Minor occurrences.
Tiger's Eye: United States
Limited deposits in various states.
Onyx: Brazil
A major source of various types of chalcedony, including onyx.
Onyx: Uruguay
Known for its agate and onyx deposits.
Onyx: Mexico
Significant deposits of banded onyx, often used for carvings.
Onyx: United States
Found in various states, particularly in the southwestern regions.
Onyx: India
Historical source of onyx.
Onyx: Pakistan
Known for its green onyx.
Collecting tips
- Look for Chatoyancy (Tiger's Eye). When searching for Tiger's Eye, look for the characteristic silky luster and the moving band of light (chatoyancy) that shifts as the stone is rotated. This is its most distinctive feature.
- Examine Banding (Onyx). For Onyx, focus on specimens with distinct, parallel bands of contrasting colors. The straightness and clarity of the bands are key identifying features.
- Check Hardness. Both minerals are varieties of quartz, so they will scratch glass (Mohs hardness of 7). This can help differentiate them from softer look-alikes.
- Consider Geological Context. Tiger's Eye is often found in metamorphic terrains associated with asbestos deposits. Onyx is typically found in volcanic regions, hot spring deposits, or sedimentary environments where silica-rich waters have precipitated.
- Polishing Reveals Features. The chatoyancy of Tiger's Eye and the banding of Onyx are best observed on polished surfaces. Rough specimens may require careful examination.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Tiger's Eye: Golden-brown, yellow, red-brown. Onyx: Black and white, or other banded colors.
- Luster:
- Tiger's Eye: Silky. Onyx: Waxy to vitreous.
- Streak:
- White (for both, as they are varieties of quartz).
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