mineral

Likely magnetite (iron-oxide mineral)

Magnetite, Fe₃O₄

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, dark gray-to-black specimen with a metallic to submetallic sparkle and irregular shape. Magnetite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6.5, a cubic crystal structure, no cleavage, and specific gravity around 5.2; magnetism is a key test, though not clearly established by the image.

Identified October 7, 2026More mineral →

Explore Likely magnetite (iron-oxide mineral) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, hydrothermal veins, and as dense grains concentrated in sediments. Its age depends on the host deposit and cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

A major iron ore used to produce steel; fine specimens are also collected, and naturally magnetic varieties are called lodestone.

Geological facts

Magnetite is strongly magnetic and can attract iron filings; the specimen’s identity is only a visual estimate.

Field identification & locations

Common in many igneous and metamorphic terrains and black-sand deposits worldwide. Check for attraction to a magnet and its unusually high heft; avoid relying on appearance alone to distinguish it from other dark minerals.