Iron(III) nitrate

Iron(III) nitrate, or ferric nitrate, is the chemical compound with the formula Fe(NO3)3·9H2O. It forms colourless to pale violet crystals that are deliquescent; i.e., crystals form a pool of water if left in open to the atmosphere. The compound is prepared simply by treating iron metal or iron oxides with nitric acid.

Ferric nitrate is the catalyst of choice for the synthesis of sodium amide from a solution of sodium in ammonia:
 * 2NH3 +  2Na  &rarr;  2NaNH2  + H2

Ferric nitrate supported on certain clays have been shown to be useful oxidants in organic synthesis. For example, this reagent, called "Clayfen" has been employed for the oxidation of alcohols to aldehydes and thiols to disulfides.

Ferric nitrate solutions are used by jewelers and metalsmiths to more safely and cleanly etch silver and silver alloys.