mineral
Magnetite (Charnockite Regional Variation)
Magnetite (Fe3O4)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Iron-black to dark grey; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal structure: Isometric/Octahedral; Cleavage: None (parting present); Density: 5.1-5.2
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Iron-black to dark grey
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Iron-black to dark grey; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal structure: Isometric/Octahedral; Cleavage: None (parting present); Density: 5.1-5.2
Formation & geological history
Formed in high-grade metamorphic rocks (Charnockites) or as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks. The Eastern Ghats Mobile Belt (near Visakhapatnam, 17.7N, 83.3E) is rich in these Proterozoic metamorphic rocks.
Uses & applications
Major ore of iron; used in industry as a heavy medium for coal washing, as a pigment, and in magnetic recording media.
Geological facts
It is one of the most magnetic minerals on Earth. When found in high concentrations in the Eastern Ghats, it can cause local magnetic deviations.
Field identification & locations
Identify using a magnet (it is strongly magnetic) and by its black streak on a streak plate. Commonly found in the gravels and metamorphic outcrops around the Visakhapatnam region.
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