Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
cubiccommonOxides
Magnetite
Fe3O4
This image displays a cluster of black, metallic, octahedral magnetite crystals, characteristic of its isometric crystal system. The crystals exhibit sharp, well-formed faces.
Magnetite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
6Crystal System
cubicLuster
metallicStreak Color
blackCleavage
noneFracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
5.18Colors
black, dark grayTransparency
opaqueType Locality
Callenberg, Glauchau, Saxony, GermanyMineral Group
OxidesUses
iron ore, pigments, heavy media separation, scientific researchAssociated Minerals
quartz, feldspar, pyroxenes, amphiboles, olivine, pyrite, chalcopyriteRarity
commonGeological Context
Magnetite is a common iron oxide mineral found in various geological settings, including igneous rocks (especially mafic and ultramafic), metamorphic rocks (like skarns and banded iron formations), and as a detrital mineral in sedimentary deposits. It forms under a wide range of temperatures and pressures.
