Magnetite

Real mineral · common · Fe₃O₄

Iron oxide with strong natural magnetic properties. One of the few minerals that acts as a natural magnet in its lodestone form. Precipitates from igneous melts as one of the first minerals to crystallise during cooling.

Identity

Formula
Fe₃O₄
Chemical class
oxide
Mineral group
Chromite, Spinel
Also known as
Lodestone (natural magnet form), Magnetic iron ore

Crystallography

Crystal system
cubic
Habits
octahedral, dodecahedral, massive
Fracture
subconchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness
6
Density
5.18 g/cm³
Luster
metallic, submetallic
Colors
iron-black, gray
Streak
black
Transparency
opaque

Geology

Origins
igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary
Host rocks
basalt, gabbro, schist
Associated minerals
Hematite, Pyrite, Quartz, Olivine
Geography
worldwide

Classification

Rarity
common
Gem quality
No

Arcane properties

Affinity
earth, storm
Effects
warding
Planar origin
Material Plane

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