2821.20.00.00 - Earth colors

This HTS category, 2821.20.00.00, specifically covers "Earth colors." These are inorganic coloring materials derived from naturally occurring earths that contain significant amounts of iron oxides. To fall within this heading, the earth colors must contain 70 percent or more by weight of combined iron, evaluated as Fe2O3. This encompasses a range of naturally occurring pigments such as ochre, sienna, and umber, often characterized by their reddish-brown to yellowish-brown hues due to the presence of iron compounds.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its sibling, 2821.10.00, which covers pure iron oxides and hydroxides. While earth colors contain iron oxides, they are distinguished by their natural origin as "earths" and their specific composition, which includes other mineral impurities that contribute to their unique coloring properties and texture. The 70% iron content threshold is a key classification determinant, separating these natural pigment earths from other inorganic pigments or less concentrated iron-bearing materials.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, classification within 2821.20.00.00 relies entirely on meeting the defined criteria: the material must be a naturally occurring earth used as a pigment, and its combined iron content, calculated as Fe2O3, must reach or exceed 70 percent by weight.