AuraFrequency Gemstone Guide: Tiger's Eye vs. Obsidian - Properties & Differences

Tiger's Eye is a quartz aggregate with a cryptocrystalline structure. Known scientifically as Tigereye, it displays colors like golden-brown, blue, and reddish-brown. This opaque, fibrous gem exhibits a unique "cat's eye" effect when cut en cabochon due to its parallel fiber structure - resembling a tiger’s gaze, hence its name.

Obsidian is a natural volcanic glass formed from rapidly cooled lava. Typically black, it can also appear in brown, gray, or rare red/blue/green hues. As an amorphous mineral, its rapid cooling creates a smooth, non-crystalline texture, often found near lava flow edges.

 Distinctive Properties

Tiger's Eye:
- Golden Variety: Classic Tigereye with silky golden bands and dramatic chatoyancy. At AuraFrequency, we select stones with vibrant banding that reflects light dynamically.
- Red Variety: Displays deep crimson flashes under light with dense, uniform fibers.
- Valued for its organic, wood-like patterns and durability (7+ Mohs hardness).

 Obsidian:
- Rainbow Obsidian: Prized for its iridescent sheen when polished.
- Black Obsidian: Most common, with a sleek glassy luster ideal for modern jewelry.

 Cultural Symbolism
Tiger's Eye at AuraFrequency:
- Associated with confidence and motivation in crystal traditions
- Many wearers value it as a symbol of personal empowerment
- Golden varieties symbolize determination and focus

 Obsidian Characteristics:
- Historically regarded as a protective stone across cultures
- Its reflective surface is thought to encourage self-awareness
- Popular for grounding practices in mindfulness rituals

Note: AuraFrequency focuses on cultural and aesthetic significance, not medical claims.

Identification Guide
1. Visual Effect:
- Tiger’s Eye: Shows moving "eye" effect under light.
- Obsidian: Displays rainbow sheen (if rainbow variety) or solid color.
2. Texture Inspection:
- Tiger’s Eye: Visible parallel fibers; silky luster.
- Obsidian: Smooth glass-like surface; conchoidal fractures.
3. Light Test:
- Tiger’s Eye: Shows fine horizontal lines.
- Obsidian: Reveals concentric color rings under bright light.

 Selecting Quality Pieces

Tiger’s Eye Value Factors:

- Chatoyancy intensity ("eye" sharpness)
- Color saturation (rich golds > muted tones)
- Rarity: Multi-colored > single-color

 Obsidian Quality Indicators:
- Surface clarity (minimal pitting)
- Iridescence intensity in rainbow types
- Deep, uniform coloration in black varieties