Tiger's Eye Tumblestone

Tiger's Eye Tumblestone

Tiger's eye (also called tiger eye) is a chatoyant gemstone that is usually a metamorphic rock (primarily in regions rich in iron ore deposits) with a golden to red-brown colour and a silky lustre.

As members of the quartz group, tiger's eye and the related blue-coloured mineral hawk's eye gain their silky, lustrous appearance from the parallel intergrowth of quartz crystals and altered amphibole fibres that have mostly turned into limonite.

The name "Tiger’s Eye" not only refers to the visual appearance of the stone, reminiscent of the intensity and power of the gaze of this majestic animal, but also to the symbolic qualities attributed to it, such as protection and vigilance.

Tiger’s Eye has emerged from the depths of the Earth over the centuries. Although its discovery is often attributed to South Africa in the 1800s, traces of this stone date back to ancient civilizations, where it was already prized for its mystical and protective properties.

The earliest mentions of Tiger’s Eye in history come from ancient cultures, particularly in Egypt, where amulets and jewelry made from Tiger’s Eye have been found in the tombs of pharaohs, worn as symbols of power and protection. At that time, the stone was considered an apotropaic talisman, capable of repelling negative energies and protecting its wearer from danger.

In Africa, this stone was also associated with powerful tribal beliefs. Warriors wore it as an amulet to promote courage and success in battle, believing that Tiger’s Eye enhanced their agility and insight. It thus became a symbol of strength and vigilance, its brilliance mimicking the intensity of a tiger’s gaze, an animal both feared and respected for its ferocity and intelligence.

In the 19th century, following the discovery of deposits in South Africa, Tiger’s Eye sparked growing interest among treasure hunters and gem enthusiasts. Initially, the stone was viewed as a rare object, an exceptional jewel reserved for an elite few. However, as new deposits were discovered, particularly in West Africa and Asia, its rarity diminished, altering its place in the collective imagination.

In the 20th century, Tiger’s Eye, once sought after as a rare gem, gradually established itself as a semi-precious stone, more accessible and valued for its unique aesthetic and protective properties. This democratization of the stone did not diminish its symbolic value, and it remained a token of strength and resilience, used in both decorative arts and jewelry.

Today, Tiger’s Eye is often linked to modern spiritual and esoteric beliefs. Contemporary cultures attribute to it powers of boosting self-confidence, bringing good fortune and protection against negative energies. 

The stone continues to captivate, not only for its aesthetic and symbolic qualities but also for the mysterious aura surrounding it, partly due to its ancient origins and its multiple meanings across time.

Each tumblestone will be chosen intuitively.

Please note:

• Every order qualifies for a free gift.
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