Tiger Iron

An interesting gemstone – it looks similar to Tigers Eye, but is comprised of several minerals and gemstones, including Hematite, Jaspers, and golden Tigers Eye.

The easiest way to describe it is probably Tigers Eye with iron bands.

Information about Tiger Iron

A gorgeous stone with an appearance similar to golden Tigers Eye.

Tiger Iron is a trade name for a form of banded ironstone rock.

It is usually comprised of Ironstone or Hematite, Tigers Eye, and some colours of Jasper – primarily reds or yellows. It may also contain chert or quartz, in various colours.

There is not a massive amount of information available online for this stone, unfortunately. The majority is mined in Australia, and South Africa.

It is primarily used as a decorative object – carved into beads or cabochons mostly. Larger pieces such as skulls and ornaments can be found too.

I have no real history on the material. Given the similarity in both appearance and name, I have to assume that the name is related to Tigers Eye.

 

Mineralogy

Chemistry
Rock composed of alternating layers of SiO₂ (tiger’s eye and jasper) and Fe₂O₃ (hematite).
Colours and Variations

Golden yellow, brown, red, grey; metallic silver-grey from hematite; silky chatoyant bands.

Streak
Various, depending on area of the rock tested.
Luster
Silky to metallic.
Transparency
Opaque
Fracture
Opaque
Crystal habit
N/A, rock with mineral layers.
Mohs hardness
Varies.
Fluorescence
None.
Specific Gravity
Varies.
Easiest testing method
Visual exam.

Hazards and Warnings

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis. When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

 

Translations

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English:

  • Tiger Iron

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Japanese:

Spanish:

  • Tigereisen

German:

  • Tigereisen

Korean:

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Gujurati:

Mandarin Chinese:

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Further Reading / External Links