Magnetite
Magnetite (Mineral species) · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); commonly occurs as octahedral or dodecahedral crystals, but often appears massive or granular as seen in this specimen.
Mineral Group
Oxides (Spinel Group)
Chemical Formula
Fe2+Fe3+2O4
Formation Process
Igneous (magmatic segregation), Metamorphic (contact or regional metamorphism of iron-rich sediments), or Hydrothermal (high-temperature vein deposits).
About This Crystal
An opaque, black to brownish-black mineral with a metallic to submetallic luster. The specimen shows a rugged, granular texture with some visible crystalline faces and a slightly greasy or dull surface where weathered.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Iron-black; Streak: Black; Cleavage: None (though may show octahedral parting); Fracture: Uneven to subconchoidal; Specific Gravity: 5.1-5.2; Strongly Magnetic; Non-fluorescent.
Optical Properties
Opaque; in thin sections or polished sections, it is isotropic with no pleochroism and high reflectivity.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally; notable deposits in Kiruna (Sweden), Magnet Cove (USA), and various locations in Brazil and South Africa. Typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5 to 6.5; Brittle tenacity; stable under normal conditions but can oxidize to hematite or goethite over geological time.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent oxidation; clean with a soft dry cloth or soft brush. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners if internal fractures are present. Store away from electronic devices due to strong magnetism.
Rarity & Value
Very common; value is generally low for massive specimens but increases for well-formed octahedral crystals. No common treatments for mineral specimens.
Special Characteristics
Strongly ferrimagnetic (attracted to magnets); some varieties (Lodestone) act as natural magnets. It is the most magnetic of all the naturally-occurring minerals on Earth.
Lore & History
Historically used by early mariners for navigation as the first compasses (Lodestone). In metaphysical lore, it is believed to be a grounding stone that aligns the chakras and attracts positive energy or 'abundance' due to its magnetic nature.