Magnetite

Magnetite also known as lodestone or loadstone, is a magnetic mineral form of iron (II, III) oxide, one of several iron oxides. Greyish black or iron in colour, with a metallic appearance and a hardness of 5.5 to 6.

The magnetic properties led to lodestones being used as an early form of magnetic compass.

See also: Ferrite, Haematite

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