mineral
Magnetite
Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)
Hardness: 5.5 - 6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black or brownish-black; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (octahedral); Cleavage: None (exhibits parting); Specific Gravity: 5.15 - 5.18; Highly magnetic.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Black or brownish-black
- Luster
- Metallic to submetallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 - 6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black or brownish-black; Luster: Metallic to submetallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (octahedral); Cleavage: None (exhibits parting); Specific Gravity: 5.15 - 5.18; Highly magnetic.
Formation & geological history
Forms in various environments including igneous rocks as an accessory mineral, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits, often via magmatic segregation or hydrothermal activity.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of iron, used in heavy media separation, coal washing, pigments, and in scientific research due to its strong magnetism.
Geological facts
Magnetite is the most magnetic of all naturally occurring minerals on Earth. Naturally magnetized pieces are called lodestone, which was used as an early form of compass.
Field identification & locations
Easily identifiable in the field by its strong attraction to magnets, black streak, and high density. Found worldwide in beach sands, igneous intrusions, and metamorphic formations.
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