Description
Genuine Magnetite Mineral Specimen from Australia
This striking Magnetite Mineral Specimen from Australia is a naturally magnetic piece of iron oxide presented attractively on a magnet, showcasing its powerful magnetic properties. Each specimen is a 100% genuine natural mineral, carefully chosen for its metallic lustre, density, and unique crystal texture. The photographs display the actual specimen you will receive, complete with a 1 cm scale cube for reference. Every piece comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its natural geological origin and specimen integrity.
Geological Background and Formation
Magnetite (Fe₃O₄) is one of the most important and fascinating minerals in the world of geology, notable as the most magnetic of all naturally occurring minerals on Earth. It forms under a wide variety of geological conditions and is found in both igneous and metamorphic environments. Australian Magnetite deposits are typically associated with banded iron formations (BIFs), formed more than two billion years ago during the Precambrian Era when dissolved iron in ancient seas combined with oxygen to precipitate iron oxides.
These formations record one of Earth’s earliest oxygenation events, marking the transition of the atmosphere into its current oxygen-rich state. The Magnetite was deposited in alternating layers with silica, later compressed and metamorphosed through tectonic activity into the dense, metallic specimens we find today. In some regions, hydrothermal processes have further concentrated Magnetite within veins and skarns, often alongside minerals such as hematite, quartz, and pyrite.
Mineralogical and Physical Characteristics
Belonging to the Oxide Mineral Group, Magnetite crystallises in the isometric system, commonly forming octahedral and dodecahedral crystals. The mineral’s characteristic black to greyish-black metallic lustre, coupled with its strong magnetic properties, makes it an essential reference mineral for both collectors and educational study.
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Chemical formula: Fe₃O₄
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Crystal system: Isometric (Cubic)
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Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale
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Specific gravity: ~5.2
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Lustre: Metallic to submetallic
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Streak: Black
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Magnetism: Strongly magnetic (ferrimagnetic mineral)
The specimen’s strong attraction to magnets and its ability to itself become magnetised make it a superb demonstration of natural magnetism. When displayed on the provided magnet base, the stone adheres firmly, showing its intrinsic magnetic pull without artificial enhancement or external influence.
Scientific and Educational Significance
Magnetite is a primary source of iron ore and plays a vital role in both geology and industrial history. Its magnetic properties have made it valuable not only as an ore mineral but also in navigation and scientific research. The ancient Greeks and Chinese are known to have used naturally magnetic Magnetite, or “lodestone,” in the earliest magnetic compasses. In modern science, Magnetite continues to be studied for its relevance in geophysics, paleomagnetism, and biomineralisation—it even occurs in trace amounts within living organisms, including magnetotactic bacteria and the human brain, helping to align biological systems with Earth’s magnetic field.
Collectability and Display
This Australian Magnetite specimen on magnet combines scientific intrigue with aesthetic appeal. The metallic sheen and natural magnetic force create a captivating display for collectors, educators, or anyone interested in the wonders of Earth’s minerals. Each specimen tells a story billions of years in the making—of geological transformation, magnetic forces, and the evolution of our planet’s crust.
Perfect for educational collections, geology enthusiasts, or crystal displays, this piece captures the power and beauty of one of Earth’s most iconic minerals.
All of our Fossils and Minerals are 100% Genuine Specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
Scale cube = 1 cm – for full sizing, please refer to the photos.
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