"Store Didoni" Collection, Macherio (MB)

Originating primarily from South Africa (Northern Cape, the Prieska area, and Griqualand), it forms through pseudomorphic replacement of silica on parallel, compact bundles of crocidolite (blue asbestos), a fibrous sodium amphibole, while preserving the original fibrous orientation. The oxidation of iron ions during this process gives it its characteristic golden-brown color (the unoxidized, blue variety is known as “hawk’s eye”). The parallel orientation of the fibers produces the optical phenomenon of chatoyance (“cat’s eye effect”). Hardness 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, density 2.64–2.71 g/cm³.

Widely used since ancient times in jewelry and amulets for its cat’s-eye effect; very common in decorative objects (caskets, spheres, inlays); valued in crystal therapy as a stone of protection and grounding.