mineral
Magnetite (Octahedral Crystal)
Magnetite (Fe3O4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Iron-black to dark gray; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often octahedral); Specific Gravity: 5.1-5.2; Streak: Black
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Iron-black to dark gray
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.5; Color: Iron-black to dark gray; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often octahedral); Specific Gravity: 5.1-5.2; Streak: Black
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. Typically occurs as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks like granite or basalt, or through contact metamorphism. Highly resistant to weathering.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron; used in heavy media separation, as a pigment, and in industrial abrasives. Specimens with good crystal form are popular in mineral collecting.
Geological facts
Magnetite is the most magnetic of all the naturally-occurring minerals on Earth. Some varieties, known as lodestone, act as natural magnets and were used in the first compasses.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its strong attraction to magnets, black streak, and characteristic double-pyramid octahedral shape. Common in the iron ranges of the USA, Brazil, Australia, and Sweden.
