Magnetite
| Colour | Black, Gray, Brown |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 5.5–6.5 |
| Lustre | Metallic |
| Streak | Black |
| Crystal system | Isometric |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Cleavage | Indistinct, parting on {Ill}, very good |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Chemical formula | iron(II,III) oxide |
| Specific gravity | 5.17–5.18 |
What is Magnetite?
Magnetite is a mineral and one of the main iron ores, with the chemical formula Fe2+Fe3+2O4. It is one of the oxides of iron, and is ferrimagnetic; it is attracted to a magnet and can be magnetized to become a permanent magnet itself. With the exception of extremely rare native iron deposits, it is the most magnetic of all the naturally occurring minerals on Earth. Naturally magnetized pieces of magnetite, called lodestone, will attract small pieces of iron, which is how ancient peoples first discovered the property of magnetism.
How to identify Magnetite
- Lustre: Metallic.
- Hardness: Mohs 5.5–6.5 — about as hard as a steel knife.
- Streak: Black.
- Habit: Isometric crystal system.
Magnetite in different forms
Stones often confused with Magnetite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Magnetite?
Magnetite is Mohs 5.5–6.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Magnetite?
Magnetite is typically black, gray, brown (Black, gray with brownish tint in reflected sun).