All Iron Oxides the Same

[DWinMadison]

I've noticed that iron oxides of various colors for soap making run $5-$7 for half an ounce or so I can order basically a vat of the stuff from chemical suppliers in all the same colors (ultramarine, bricek red, etc...) for basically pennies an ounce. Aren't these all basically the same chemical compounds? So why not order the vat? I get the feeling the soap suppliers order the same stuff I'm looking at in bulk, break it down into small packages and mark it WAY up for resale.

Here's an example from Alpha Chemicals

http://alphachemicals.com/red_iron_oxide

Thoughts?

 

[thefarmerdaughter]

Are those mined or lab created, I can't tell?
If they are not certified skin safe, you may find yo self in a heap-o-trouble.

 

[Genny]

If you check the MSDS for the iron oxide it has the following warnings

Label precautions: Avoid contact with eyes, skin and clothing. Wash thoroughly after handling. Avoid
breathing dust. Keep container closed. Use only with adequate ventilation.

Skin Contact Wash exposed area with soap and water. Get medical advice is irritation develops

I'm going to guess that they are not FDA certified since their site says that the only certified product they carry is citric acid.

 

[judymoody]

Try the Conservatorie, Coastal Scents or TKB trading if you want skin safe oxides for reasonable prices. I just did a quick check on the Conservatorie and their oxides start at 9-10 dollars per pound. Some of the ultramarines are more but top out at around $1.50 per ounce. TKB may be better still.

 

[DWinMadison]

Thanks for the feedback.