Tiger Iron

Physical Information

Tiger iron is a layered rock made of three minerals: golden tiger's eye, metallic grey hematite and red jasper. Its bold stripes of gold, silver-grey and red make it very easy to recognise. It is a type of very old banded iron formation, where layers of iron oxide and silica were laid down and later folded and compressed.

Most tiger iron comes from Western Australia. The shimmering tiger's eye layers show a silky light effect called chatoyancy, while the hematite gives the stone its weight and metallic shine. With a hardness of about 5.5–7, depending on the layer, it is durable and used for palm stones, spheres, carvings and beads. Wipe it with a soft cloth and avoid soaking it, as hematite does not like long contact with water.

Metaphysical Properties

Tiger iron is known as a stone of strength and vitality. It is believed to combine the courage and focus of tiger's eye, the grounding of hematite and the steady endurance of red jasper. Many people use it when they feel tired or unmotivated and need willpower to keep going.

It is associated with the root chakra and the solar plexus chakra, which are linked to stability, confidence and practical action. Many people carry it during busy or demanding periods, or keep it on a desk as a reminder to stay strong, grounded and determined.