10.82 Ct. Cabochon Tiger's Eye from South Africa

One exquisite, opaque 10.82 carat oval golden brown tiger's eye, sourced from South Africa, is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, carefully evaluated and described for clarity and suitability in fine jewelry applications. The gemstone measures 18.03 x 13.01 x 6.67 mm, and it has been cut as a classic cabochon to best display the characteristic chatoyancy of tiger's eye. Clarity is graded as opaque when viewed at eye level, which is consistent with the fibrous structure and iron rich inclusions that produce the distinctive silky banding. Color is described as a warm golden brown, and while a formal color intensity grade is not applicable, the hue and contrast between the lighter chatoyant band and the darker body of the stone are readily apparent. The surface has been given an excellent polish that enhances luster and the distinct, narrow eye line, and there has been no enhancement or treatment applied to this natural specimen.

The cabochon cut and oval outline have been selected to center and emphasize the single, well defined chatoyant band that traverses the dome of the stone, creating a sharp, reflective line when the gem is viewed under directional light. This optical effect results from the parallel fibrous microstructure within the quartz, and from aligned, colloform iron oxides, which together produce the silk like reflection commonly referred to as a cat eye. The high dome of the cabochon permits clean movement of the band across the surface as the stone or the viewer changes position, and the combination of excellent polish and the accurate placement of the band makes the eye appear precise and crisp. Photographic representation shows the band crossing the oval field near the midline, which is often preferred in jewelry settings that aim to showcase the chatoyancy as a focal element.

From a practical perspective, tiger's eye is durable for everyday wear, being a variety of quartz with a hardness of approximately 7 on the Mohs scale, and it responds well to standard gem setting practices. The cabochon profile and documented dimensions make this piece suitable for a range of applications, including a center stone in rings, an elegant pendant, or a prominent element in a brooch. Settings that protect the girdle and avoid exposing the cabochon to heavy lateral impacts are recommended, and a bezel mount is particularly effective in offering both protection and a clean visual frame. The stone pairs well with yellow and rose gold for a warm, complementary presentation, as well as with polished sterling silver for a high contrast contemporary look, and these combinations help to accentuate the golden brown tones and the luminous chatoyant band without introducing visual competition.

Care and provenance details are provided to support informed decision making, and The Natural Gemstone Company confirms that this tiger's eye is natural, untreated, and originates from South Africa as stated. Routine cleaning with mild soap and warm water, followed by gentle drying with a soft cloth, will maintain surface luster, and the use of harsh chemicals, prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and ultrasonic cleaners is not recommended, as these conditions can affect the polish or the stone mounting. For designers and collectors seeking a specimen with a distinct, well centered eye, precise dimensions, and a high quality polish, this 10.82 carat oval cabochon offers an attractive balance of optical appeal, practical durability, and natural provenance, and it is offered with the accurate measurements and condition assessment supplied by The Natural Gemstone Company.