Collection: Magnetite

Magnetite is a naturally occurring iron oxide mineral known for its magnetic properties.

🔬 Chemical and physical characteristics

• Chemical formula: Fe₃O₄ (iron(II,III) oxide)

• Color: black or dark gray

• Shine: metallic

• Hardness (Mohs scale): 5.5 to 6.5

• Density: about 5.2 g/cm³

• Magnetism: strongly magnetic (it is one of the few naturally ferrimagnetic minerals)

🌍 Origin and training

Magnetite is formed:

• in igneous rocks such as basalt or gabbro,

• in metamorphic rocks ,

• by hydrothermal processes ,

• and even in certain living organisms (traces are found in certain bird brains and even in humans).

🧲 Magnetic properties

Magnetite is famous for its natural magnetism : some crystals can act as permanent magnets. It was historically used as a natural compass (then called "magnet stone").

🏭 Uses

• Steel industry: as iron ore (it contains up to 72% iron).

• Magnetic applications : manufacturing of magnetic tapes, inks, pigments, etc.

• Biomedical research : in nanoparticles (e.g. MRI imaging, therapeutic targeting).

🧪 Scientific anecdotes

• Magnetite is studied in paleomagnetism : it preserves the orientation of the Earth's magnetic field at the time of its formation, which helps to reconstruct the movements of tectonic plates.

• It has been detected in some Martian meteorites , fueling debates about possible ancient life on Mars.