MARRA MAMBA

Marra mamba is a type of tiger's eye found exclusively in western Australia along the Hammersley range of the Pilbara region.

- BY BEN KANIUTH

When you think of this material, you might associate it simply with tiger’s eye or tiger iron, however, it is much more than that. Marra mamba is a mix of banded iron formations and bands of small needle-like growth in parallel bands, showcasing its distinct chatoyancy. What sets it off are the various minerals coloring the fibrous banding ranging from black and red (hematite), yellow (goethite & limonite), blue (riebeckite) and even some gorgeous black (magnetite). Nowadays, it’s rare to see blues and reds as the original deposit became mined out in the 70s.

TIPS FOR PURCHASING

When purchasing Marra mamba, it can be found in various sizes from the size of your fist to several pound chunks. Glenn Archer, owner of Australian Outback Mining, has a photo next to a life-size slab. Marra mamba can be found in most venues in person and online. Most of the time you can easily see what you're getting into, as the banded patterns are evident on the outside. If you want to be certain about what you're buying, purchasing slabs will be your best choice.

TAKING PRECAUTIONS