metamorphic
Tiger Iron
Tiger Iron (Hematite, Red Jasper, and Chert/Tiger's Eye composite)
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Variegated bands of gold, silver-gray, and deep red; Luster: Waxy to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (aggregate); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-3.0
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Variegated bands of gold, silver-gray, and deep red
- Luster
- Waxy to sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Variegated bands of gold, silver-gray, and deep red; Luster: Waxy to sub-metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (aggregate); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.6-3.0
Formation & geological history
Formed approximately 2.2 to 3 billion years ago during the Archean and Proterozoic eons, likely through the metamorphism of banded iron formations (BIFs) where tiger's eye, jasper, and hematite were compressed together.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads), lapidary art, ornamental carvings, and by collectors for its striking aesthetic patterns.
Geological facts
Tiger Iron is considered a 'biological' rock by some because it contains evidence of early life on Earth; the oxygen that formed the iron oxides was produced by cyanobacteria. The most famous deposits are found in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct high-contrast banding of golden tigers eye, red jasper, and metallic hematite. It is significantly heavier than pure jasper due to the iron content. Found mostly in Australia and South Africa.
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