Magnetite on Magnet Mineral Specimen Australia Natural Iron Oxide Genuine

Overview & Authenticity

This listing presents a genuine Magnetite mineral specimen from Australia, naturally attracted to and displayed on a magnet to demonstrate its defining physical property. The specimen has been carefully chosen for clarity of form, magnetic response, and overall presentation. The photographs show the actual specimen you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and confidence when purchasing.
Each piece is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, including a lifetime guarantee of genuineness, provided on a generic authenticity card. This confirms the specimen is a real, naturally occurring mineral and not a manufactured or artificial product.

Mineral Identification & Composition

Magnetite is an iron oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe₃O₄ and is one of the most scientifically significant minerals known. It belongs to the spinel group and crystallises in the isometric (cubic) crystal system. Magnetite is unique among common minerals for being naturally magnetic, a property that has fascinated scientists and collectors for centuries.
The mineral typically appears black to dark grey with a metallic to submetallic lustre. In this specimen, the magnetic attraction is clearly demonstrated by its interaction with the magnet, providing a direct and engaging way to observe this natural phenomenon.

Geological Formation & Australian Origin

Magnetite forms in a wide range of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary settings. It commonly develops during the crystallisation of magma, through high-temperature metamorphic processes, or via chemical precipitation in sedimentary systems.
Australia hosts some of the world’s most significant magnetite deposits, formed through ancient geological processes spanning hundreds of millions of years. These deposits reflect complex interactions between tectonic activity, heat, pressure, and iron-rich fluids, making Australian magnetite specimens especially valued for their geological importance.

Physical Characteristics & Morphology

This magnetite specimen may occur as a massive aggregate, granular form, or partial crystal structure, depending on its natural growth conditions. The surface typically shows a dense, compact appearance with a subtle sheen.
Its magnetic properties are intrinsic to the mineral’s atomic structure, where iron ions are arranged in a way that produces a permanent magnetic field. This makes magnetite a key mineral in studies of geophysics, paleomagnetism, and Earth’s magnetic history.

Scientific & Educational Significance

Magnetite has played a crucial role in scientific discovery, from early navigation using lodestone to modern research into plate tectonics and Earth’s magnetic field. It is commonly used in educational collections to demonstrate natural magnetism and mineral physics.
Specimens mounted on or interacting with a magnet provide an immediate, hands-on learning experience, making this piece ideal for teaching environments, classrooms, or science displays.

Collecting & Display Appeal

This magnetite on magnet specimen is well suited for mineral collections, educational displays, desks, or cabinets, where its magnetic interaction can be easily observed and appreciated. It is particularly appealing to collectors interested in physical mineral properties rather than appearance alone.
Full sizing details are provided in the accompanying photographs. As a carefully selected, genuine Australian magnetite specimen supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity and lifetime guarantee, this piece offers both scientific relevance and visual interest, making it a meaningful addition to any mineral or crystal collection.