A strongly magnetic iron oxide mineral, magnetite is an important iron ore. Its strong magnetism makes it easy to identify - it will attract a magnet or even move a compass needle. Color: Black to brownish-black. Luster: Metallic to submetallic. Streak: Black. Cleavage: None. Hardness: 5.5-6.5. Transparency: Opaque. Crystal system: Cubic. Chemical formula: Fe₃O₄. Specific gravity: 5.2. Formation: Crystallizes from iron-rich magmas or forms during metamorphism of iron-rich sediments. Also forms from hydrothermal alteration. Common geological settings: Found in igneous rocks especially mafic types , metamorphic rocks, and as heavy mineral concentrates in sediments black sand beaches . Common look-alikes and related entries: Hematite, Ilmenite, Chromite.
Previous: Magnesite — Magnesium carbonate used in the production of refractory bricks and as a source of magnesium oxide.
Next: Magnetite (Lodestone) — Naturally magnetized variety of magnetite that acts as a natural compass. Known since antiquity for its magnetic properties.
These authoritative resources support category-level nomenclature, terminology, identification methods, and safety. When a specimen-specific safety warning appears, the public-health source listed here directly supports that precaution. They are not line-by-line citations for every other property on this entry, and natural specimens vary.
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Last updated
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IMA–CNMNC List of Mineral Names — International Mineralogical Association. Official mineral-name, nomenclature, and classification records.
Mineral ID Key — Mineralogical Society of America. Physical-property identification methods, repeat-testing guidance, and limitations.
A strongly magnetic iron oxide mineral, magnetite is an important iron ore. Its strong magnetism makes it easy to identify - it will attract a magnet or even move a compass needle.
How can you identify Magnetite?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records colour: Black to brownish-black; lustre: Metallic to submetallic; streak: Black; Mohs hardness: 5.5-6.5; cleavage: None; crystal system: Cubic; transparency: Opaque. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Magnetite form?
Crystallizes from iron-rich magmas or forms during metamorphism of iron-rich sediments. Also forms from hydrothermal alteration.
Where is Magnetite commonly found?
Found in igneous rocks especially mafic types , metamorphic rocks, and as heavy mineral concentrates in sediments black sand beaches .
What is Magnetite commonly confused with?
Magnetite may be confused with Hematite, Ilmenite, Chromite. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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