How Much Is Tiger’s Eye Worth?

When I first came across Tiger’s Eye, I was instantly captivated.

It’s one of those stones that you look at, and it’s hard not to be mesmerized by its shimmering bands of gold and brown.

As someone who's been in the gemstone and e-commerce world for years, I can honestly say that Tiger’s Eye is both one of the most beautiful and undervalued stones out there.

But how much is it really worth?

In this blog, I’ll share my experiences and insights, breaking down how the price of Tiger’s Eye is determined, what factors impact its value, and why it should be a part of your collection or business.

What is Tiger’s Eye?

If you’re new to gemstones or just need a refresher, let’s start with the basics.

Tiger’s Eye is a type of quartz that’s known for its chatoyancy, which is that unique, shimmering effect that makes it seem like the stone is shifting colors as you move it.

It’s like having a piece of nature’s light show right in your hand.

The name comes from the stone’s resemblance to a tiger’s eye, with its deep golden, brown, and sometimes even reddish hues.

This gem is believed to have been used for centuries for protection, luck, and grounding—whether you believe in that or not, it definitely adds to its allure.

What Affects the Value of Tiger’s Eye?

Tiger’s Eye is beautiful and striking, but when it comes to its price, several factors come into play.

As someone who’s been selling this stone for a while, I’ve seen pieces go for as little as a few dollars and others that can fetch hundreds, depending on a few key elements.

1. Size and Weight

Like most gemstones, size matters when it comes to the price of Tiger’s Eye.

Larger stones or pieces that can be carved into substantial jewelry or display items will naturally command higher prices.

In general, a polished Tiger’s Eye stone that’s about the size of a marble might sell for $5-$10, while a larger, more impressive piece (think the size of a baseball or larger) can go for upwards of $100, depending on the quality.

2. Color and Quality

Not all Tiger’s Eye stones are created equal.

The more vibrant and intense the color, the higher the price.

Stones with a deep, rich gold and brown contrast, with clearly defined bands, are going to be worth more than those that are dull or have less distinct patterns.

Occasionally, you might come across blue or red Tiger’s Eye, which are rarer varieties.

These stones, especially the red ones, are often heat-treated, but their unique appearance makes them more valuable, with prices higher than the standard golden variety.

3. Clarity and Chatoyancy

Chatoyancy—the shimmering, reflective effect that gives Tiger’s Eye its signature look—is one of the most important factors in determining the stone’s value.

Stones with a sharp, well-defined chatoyancy are highly sought after and will sell for more than stones where this effect is less pronounced.

Essentially, the more it “winks” at you when you move it, the better.

Clarity is another important aspect. While inclusions (imperfections within the stone) are common, too many can reduce the value, especially if they interfere with the chatoyancy.

4. Cut and Shape

Tiger’s Eye can be found in a variety of forms—from rough, unpolished pieces to intricately carved figurines or polished cabochons for jewelry.

Raw, unpolished stones are generally less expensive than their polished counterparts.

However, if you come across an intricately carved Tiger’s Eye piece, the price will likely reflect the craftsmanship that went into shaping the stone.

Cabochons (smooth, rounded gemstones without facets) are particularly popular in jewelry because they enhance the stone’s natural sheen.

Jewelry-quality cabochons can range in price from $10 for a small, average-quality piece to $100 or more for larger, high-quality stones.

5. Origin

Where the Tiger’s Eye is mined also plays a role in its value.

The most common sources are South Africa and Western Australia, which produce the bulk of the world’s supply.

However, pieces from lesser-known locales can fetch a premium, particularly if they have unique characteristics or colors.

How Much Is Tiger’s Eye Really Worth?

Now that we’ve broken down the factors that influence the price, let’s talk numbers.

Based on my experience in the market and what I’ve seen from both online and in-person sales, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for Tiger’s Eye:

Small Polished Stones (1-2 inches): These typically range from $5 to $20 depending on the quality, color, and level of chatoyancy.
Larger Polished Pieces (3-5 inches): Prices here can vary from $30 to $150, especially for larger, well-polished specimens with strong chatoyancy and rich colors.
Tiger’s Eye Jewelry: If you’re looking at pendants, rings, or bracelets, prices can start as low as $20 for basic pieces and go up to $200 or more for high-quality, handcrafted items set in precious metals.
Rough or Raw Tiger’s Eye: Rough pieces can be relatively affordable, often ranging from $10 to $50 depending on the size and quality. These pieces are great for collectors or anyone who wants to display the stone in its natural form.
Rare Varieties (Blue or Red Tiger’s Eye): These stones generally fetch higher prices due to their rarity. A good quality red or blue Tiger’s Eye can sell for $30 to $100 for smaller polished stones, and up to $200 or more for larger pieces.

Why You Should Consider Adding Tiger’s Eye to Your Collection

Now, I’ve been selling gemstones for a long time, and trust me when I say Tiger’s Eye is one of those stones that always draws attention.

It has this magnetic appeal—whether you’re into crystals for their metaphysical properties or just love beautiful things, Tiger’s Eye is a must-have.

First off, it’s versatile.

You can wear it as jewelry, display it on your desk or in your home, or simply keep it as a piece of natural art.

Plus, it’s relatively affordable compared to other gemstones, so you can start a collection without needing to spend a fortune.

Is Tiger’s Eye Good for Jewelry?

Absolutely! Tiger’s Eye is durable, with a hardness of around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it’s tough enough to be used in everyday jewelry without getting scratched or damaged easily.

Its chatoyancy also makes it a stunning centerpiece in rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

In fact, one of the first pieces of gemstone jewelry I ever bought for myself was a Tiger’s Eye pendant, and it still gets compliments to this day.

Metaphysical Properties of Tiger’s Eye

Whether you believe in the metaphysical properties of stones or not, there’s no denying that Tiger’s Eye has a fascinating lore behind it.

In many cultures, it’s considered a stone of protection and grounding.

Some believe it helps with mental clarity, decision-making, and attracting wealth.

For those into chakra healing, Tiger’s Eye is often associated with the solar plexus chakra, which governs personal power and self-confidence.

In my own experience, I’ve seen a lot of customers drawn to Tiger’s Eye for its grounding and centering energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where does Tiger’s Eye come from?

Tiger’s Eye is primarily mined in South Africa and Western Australia, although smaller deposits can be found in other parts of the world.

2. Is Tiger’s Eye expensive?

Not particularly! Small polished stones can start as low as $5, while larger, high-quality pieces or jewelry can range from $20 to over $200, depending on the craftsmanship and quality.

3. How is Tiger’s Eye formed?

Tiger’s Eye is a variety of quartz that forms through the pseudomorphing of crocidolite.

This means the original mineral is replaced over time by quartz, but its structure is preserved, creating the stone’s unique appearance.

4. Can you wear Tiger’s Eye every day?

Yes, Tiger’s Eye is durable enough for everyday wear, making it a popular choice for jewelry like rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

5. Does Tiger’s Eye have any special powers?

Many people believe Tiger’s Eye has metaphysical properties, such as providing protection, promoting mental clarity, and attracting wealth.

Whether or not you believe in these powers, there’s no denying the stone’s stunning appearance!