Magnetite
Magnetite is one of the three naturally occurring iron oxide minerals. It is the most strongly magnetic mineral found in nature. Normally magnetite is attracted to a magnet but some specimens are naturally magnetized and have the ability to attract small pieces of iron and small pieces of magnetite. This form of magnetite is called lodestone and was man's first encounter with magnetism. Lodestone is easily identified because it is usually covered with small particles of magnetite and other magnetic minerals.
Magnetite is a very common iron oxide mineral that is found in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. It is the most commonly mined ore of iron because it has the highest iron content. Magnetite is very easy to identify. It is one of a few minerals that are attracted to a common magnet. It is a black, opaque mineral with a sub metallic to metallic luster. It can be found in the form of octahedral crystals which are a common habit of magnetite. They are often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and sometimes seen in sediments near the magnetite source area.
Pieces of lodestone suspended on a string were the first magnetic compasses. They worked well because when a small piece of lodestone is suspended on a string, it will align itself with Earth's magnetic field. These primitive compasses were used as early as 300BC
Item # MAG10150001
Magnetite Lodestone from Utah
This Magnetite natural lodestone was found in Utah in 2004. The small iron particles were already on it when it was found. This piece has been in our collection for the past 11 years. A very nice specimen of lodestone.
measures 2.5 x 2 x 1.2 inches (65 x 51 x 31 mm) and weighs 6.7 oz or 0.42 lb (191g)
Item # MAG10150442
Magnetite Octahedral Crystals from Bolivia
This is a gorgeous, shiny, sparkly specimen of Magnetite Crystals on a light colored fluorescent matrix from Cerro Huanaquino, Totora, Potosi, Bolivia. The crystals are sharp, arranged aesthetically, and contrast beautifully against the matrix. From our personal collection.
This is a great example of a classic mineral.
The matrix glows a beautiful pink/red color when viewed under UV light. The pictures cannot show how lustrous, sharp and nice this piece is, it really needs to be viewed in person. A few of the crystals appear to have small contact marks but when displayed do not detract from this specimens beauty, and that's why this is available for such a great price. We procured this from a Bolivian Mineral Dealer in 2007
measures 3.4 x 1.1 x 1 inches (88 x 29 x 26 mm) and the largest crystal measures 11mm across the widest points and weighs 2.7 oz or 0.17 lb (79g)