mineral
Magnetite / Hematite mix
Magnetite (Fe3O4) and Hematite (Fe2O3)
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs), Color: Metallic dark gray to black, Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, Crystal Structure: Isometric (magnetite) and Hexagonal (hematite), Streak: Black to reddish-brown
- Hardness
- 5
- Streak
- Black to reddish-brown
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5 (Mohs), Color: Metallic dark gray to black, Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic, Crystal Structure: Isometric (magnetite) and Hexagonal (hematite), Streak: Black to reddish-brown
Formation & geological history
Commonly formed in igneous and metamorphic environments, often found in banded iron formations (sedimentary) or as an accessory mineral in granite and hydrothermal veins.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in steel production; also used as a heavy media for coal washing and as a mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Magnetite is the most magnetic naturally occurring mineral on Earth. In the past, the naturally occurring lodestone (highly magnetic magnetite) was used as an early form of a compass.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its high density (heavy for its size), metallic luster, and strong attraction to a magnet; check the streak on a ceramic plate for diagnostic colors.
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