Pietersite Gemstone Beads

Frequently asked questions

• What's the difference between pietersite and tiger eye?

  Both are chatoyant quartz with fibrous crocidolite inclusions, but tiger eye shows parallel fibers in continuous gold or blue bands. Pietersite is brecciated — tectonic activity fractured and recemented the fibers at varied angles, producing the swirling 'storm' pattern with multiple chatoyant directions and mixed blue, gold, red, and brown zones in a single stone.
• Where does pietersite come from?

  Dakota stocks pietersite from the two known commercial deposits: Namibia (discovered by Sid Pieters in 1962, generally bluer and more storm-like) and Henan Province, China (often redder and browner). Both are genuine pietersite. Namibian material is scarcer and typically commands higher prices, so confirm origin before buying on premium-priced strands.
• Is pietersite dyed or treated?

  Pietersite is typically untreated — the storm pattern and color range come from naturally occurring crocidolite fibers within a quartz matrix. The variation in a single strand is geological, not enhancement. Treatment status can still vary by supplier, so ask before buying if not specified.
• How durable is pietersite for jewelry?

  At Mohs 6.5–7 (host quartz), pietersite is durable enough for bracelets, earrings, and necklaces with normal wear. Clean with mild soap and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe, but avoid prolonged heat or steam — sustained high temperatures can dull the chatoyant sheen by altering the fibrous inclusions.
• What sizes and cuts of pietersite does Dakota stock?

  Current stock centers on 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm rounds, with cubes, faceted cubes, table-cut cubes, rondelles, tubes (6x13mm), and chip strands also available. Loose cabochons are stocked for bezel-set and wire-wrapped work where the storm pattern reads best on a flat polished face.