mineral

Magnetite (Charnockite Regional Variation)

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

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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.