metamorphic
Tiger Iron
Tiger Iron (Composition: SiO2, Fe2O3, Fe3O4)
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Banded golden-yellow, dark gray/black, and metallic red/silver; Luster: Vitreous to silky (chatoyant) and metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.64-3.1
- Hardness
- 7 (Mohs scale)
- Luster
- Vitreous to silky (chatoyant) and metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 7 (Mohs scale); Color: Banded golden-yellow, dark gray/black, and metallic red/silver; Luster: Vitreous to silky (chatoyant) and metallic; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None/Conchoidal fracture; Specific Gravity: 2.64-3.1
Formation & geological history
Metamorphic rock formed from a combination of Banded Iron Formation (BIF) and tiger's eye. It originates primarily from the Archean Eon, over 2.5 billion years ago, through the compression and heating of sedimentary layers containing silica, iron oxides, and crocidolite.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used for ornamental carvings, jewelry (cabochons and beads), decorative spheres, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors due to its striking banded appearance.
Geological facts
Tiger iron is a 'composed' rock containing three distinct minerals: Tiger\'s eye (silicified crocidolite), Hematite (silvery gray metal), and Red Jasper. It is often referred to as a 'muggina' rock in Australia.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive heavy weight (due to iron content) and repeating bands of gold, red, and silver. Best found in the Hamersley Range of Western Australia. Collectors look for high chatoyancy in the golden bands and sharp contrast between the metallic and jasper layers.
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