BIF can be divided into two broads classes

1. Algoma type BIF

2. Superior type BIF

 Geological settings
ALGOMA TYPE
- Mainly are Archean BIF
- Small in size
- Formed by submarine volcanic
processes, therefore have volcanic
rocks associations
- Formed from hot spring activity
near volcanic centres
SUPERIOR TYPE
- Mostly are early Proterozoic (ca.
billion years)
- Relatively larger in size
- May not include volcanic rock
component
- Usually occur in shallow –
continental shelf orthoquartizite –
carbonate rock association
- They represent distal marine
chemical sedimentation. Away from
strong influence of submarine
volcanism
Ore mineralogy
• BIF includes;
– Magnetite (Fe3O4)
– Hematite (Fe2O3)
– Siderite (FeCO3)
– Limonite [Fe2O3.nH2O, Fe(OH)3 or FeO.OH]
– Silica (SiO2 ) as Chert
– Fe-Mg silicate
– Fe-sulfides
Tectonite
BIF dominated by magnetite, Fe-silicates and chert
± hematite and siderite

Itabirites
Iron formation consisting mainly of quartz-
hematite mixtures
BIF facies
A well preserved BIF may consist of four distinct mineral facies namely:

–Oxide facies formed in shallow oxygenated water (high – moderate fO2)

» Hematite sub facies containing hematite and chert/jasper
» Magnetite sub facies containing magnetite interlayered with silica,
carbonates, Fe-silicates or combination of these minerals

–Silicate facies formed in shallow to intermediate depth

» Abundant hydrous ferrous silicates, magnetite or carbonate
bearing rocks
–Carbonate facies formed at intermediate water depth
» Consist of siderite or Fe-rich ankerite interbedded with chert
–Sulphide facies formed in deep parts of a sedimentary basin
» Contain Fe-sulphides (for example black carbonaceous slates have
40% pyrite) that indicate no oxygen/stagnant water with no
circulation