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1.25" Lustrous Octahedral Magnetite Crystal - Utah
This is a gorgeous, 1.25" wide octahedral magnetite crystal, collected from Iron County in southwestern Utah. Besides its stunning habit, this magnetite crystal exhibits temporary magnet properties when held near a permanent magnet.
About Magnetite
Magnetite is a naturally occurring iron oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe₃O₄. It is one of the most magnetic minerals found on Earth, a property that has made it historically significant in the development of early navigation tools like the compass. Magnetite typically forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and its crystals often appear as octahedrons or granular masses with a metallic luster and a deep black to dark gray color.
The mineral is composed of both ferrous (Fe²⁺) and ferric (Fe³⁺) iron, giving it its strong magnetic characteristics and distinguishing it from other iron oxides such as hematite. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5–6.5 and a high specific gravity, making it quite dense. Magnetite is an important iron ore and is widely mined for use in steel production.
Besides its industrial value, magnetite is also of interest to collectors due to its striking appearance and magnetic properties. Large or well-formed octahedral crystals are particularly sought after.
Magnetite is a naturally occurring iron oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe₃O₄. It is one of the most magnetic minerals found on Earth, a property that has made it historically significant in the development of early navigation tools like the compass. Magnetite typically forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and its crystals often appear as octahedrons or granular masses with a metallic luster and a deep black to dark gray color.
The mineral is composed of both ferrous (Fe²⁺) and ferric (Fe³⁺) iron, giving it its strong magnetic characteristics and distinguishing it from other iron oxides such as hematite. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5–6.5 and a high specific gravity, making it quite dense. Magnetite is an important iron ore and is widely mined for use in steel production.
Besides its industrial value, magnetite is also of interest to collectors due to its striking appearance and magnetic properties. Large or well-formed octahedral crystals are particularly sought after.
$25
SPECIES
Magnetite
LOCATION
Iron Springs District, Iron County, Utah
SIZE
1.25" wide
CATEGORY
ITEM
#320455
