This rod of metal brings on the heat, all thanks to the discoveries of Austrian scientist Baron Carl Auer von Welsbach in 1903. Welsbach was experimenting with rare earth metals such as cerium, lanthanum and neodymium and discovered that the alloy of 70% cerium, a metal known for its low-ignition temperatures, and 30% iron gave off sparks when scratched. If scratched by harder and sharper objects, such as a carbon steel blade, the alloy’s tiny shavings are oxidized and ignited, burning near 430°F. 

* The "flint" in most lighters is actually ferrocerium. * Often called magnesium rods, but contain only traces of Mg. This striker is great for lighting campfires or for emergency situations. Forcefully strike the steel along the length of the rod.