Magnetite, or as it is also called, magnetic iron ore– one of the most common natural minerals, known throughout the world since ancient times. The first mention of the stone dates back to the 6th century BC. e.

The stone is used in the treatment of various diseases, massage and magical rituals, and making beautiful accessories. This article is about its amazing properties, places of extraction and use for professional and personal purposes.

Magnetic iron ore is a black, dark brown or gray, most often with a slight metallic sheen, but sometimes there are resin and matte sheen options. The density of magnetite is average; fragile, opaque, it melts at 1561 degrees. 69 percent of the composition is iron, or rather its trivalent oxide.

The most common shape of the stone is grain, but it is often found in the form of an octahedron, rhombic dodecahedron, and their various combinations. The shape of the balls is considered a rare and valuable specimen.

The main feature of the stone is its magnetic abilities, which it does not lose even after being crushed into sand. Because of them, the mineral is capable of confusing compass readings. This property made the stone famous throughout the world.

In Greece the stone is known as adamas, zigelstein in Germany, Eagle Bone in Egypt, and in France ayman. Most of the variants mean “lover”, thereby people tried to express the amazing property of the stone to attract metals.

How magnetite got its name is not known for certain, according to one version in honor ancient city Magnesia, according to another - on behalf of the shepherd Magnes who found him.

Where is it mined?

Magnetite is a source of pure iron. Magnetic ore is mined mainly in Russia (more than half of the world's reserves). The Pionerskoye deposits are of great importance today. Far East and in the Karelian city of Kostomuksha, as well as the Siberian iron ore basin.

The second place in terms of reserves of magnetic iron ore is occupied by Brazilian mines, followed by Swedish, Indian, Canadian, Australian, as well as deposits located in the USA, Australia and South Africa.

It is found in bulk on the surface. Minerals transformed by sulfides that accelerate the decomposition process are called limonite. Hematite is also a product of the transformation of magnetite; a stone becomes hematite after calcination.

Story

In ancient times, magnetic minerals were used to treat the most various diseases. It was described by such great philosophers as Plato, Aristotle and Pythagoras. In the 1st century AD e. Dioscorides recommended wearing this stone to people suffering from depression, and in the 9th century AD. The famous physician from Central Asia, Avicenna, believed that magnetite could help with stomach diseases.

Despite the efforts of Queen Elizabeth's physician and the founder of experimental science in England, W. Gilbert of Colchester, who proved that taking magnetite causes severe pain, the stone was used as a medicine for a very long time.

The most significant successes in treatment with magnetite were achieved in the 18th century in Europe by Franz Mesmer. And in the 9th century in France, a special commission recognized magnetite as useful for the properties it has in the treatment of nervous diseases.

Healing qualities

IN modern medicine stones are often used, but there is no scientific evidence of exactly how the magnetic field affects a specific disease. One of the most popular ideas was put forward by G. Shipov, who explained the influence of a magnet on the processes occurring in human body, using a strong torsion field.

Among the scientifically proven beneficial properties can be called:

• rejuvenating effect on the body;
• slowing down the development of bacteria;
• wound healing;
• assistance in the treatment of eye diseases, Parkinson's disease.

Magnetophoresis is prescribed for varicose veins, radiculitis and bone fractures (reduces the time for their healing) and bronchitis. And balls made of iron magnetite are used for therapeutic massage various diseases.

Magic properties

For its ability to attract metals, the magnetite mineral is popular among followers of magic and the occult, mainly as an amulet that protects against enemies.

This mineral substance, when used, helps develop extrasensory and creative abilities. In the Middle Ages, alchemists and sorcerers endowed this magnet stone with special powers, made special wands, and drew magic circles with its help. Before the battle, Alexander the Great himself gave small stones to the army for protection from witches and evil spirits.

Today, the high iron content stone is believed to act as a natural magnet, draw out pain, improve mood, cure insanity and ward off nightmares.

A bracelet or beads made of magnetite protects against diseases of the eyes, stomach and bones. And people who have connected their lives with constant discoveries, such as inventors, geologists and archaeologists, can wear stones as a talisman.

What zodiac signs is it suitable for?

In astrology, magnetite is not very popular and is considered suitable for any zodiac sign, however, it is most useful for Aries, Scorpios and Capricorns. The stone will help representatives of these signs in accepting and understanding important changes in life; everyone else will find it useful to use it during meditation.

To activate the energy and its magical properties, direct contact of the stone with the skin is necessary, so the most effective decoration would be a pendant without a frame, rings, earrings, bracelets, etc. to a lesser extent– brooches.

Cost and difference from fake

The price of magnetite varies depending on several factors: size, shape, shade. For example, a 2 mm cabochon costs about 150 rubles, and magnetite rosary from 600 rubles, since more material will be spent, plus the cost of the craftsman’s work.

Prices for special magnetite balls for anti-cellulite massage start from a thousand rubles and can reach several tens of thousands per set. The larger, more elegant and luxurious the product, the more it will cost, but the choice is so varied that a person with any financial income can afford to buy from magnetite.

In practice, due to their low cost, fakes are rare, but magnetite can be confused with hematite (bloodstone), which is very similar in appearance. To distinguish a real stone from a fake, it is enough to remember that magnetite is the only mineral that attracts metals, so to check it, you just need to bring any metal object to the product.

How to wear and care

The range of products made from this mineral is very wide: beads, rings, rosaries, bracelets, earrings, massage balls and much more. However, you should not wear such jewelry for a long time, it can be harmful to your health.

Magnetic stone has been extremely popular throughout human history and today its importance cannot be overestimated. At metallurgical plants, stones are used to make special steels and are artificially converted into hematite. In chemistry, phosphorus is obtained with its help, and in medicine, magnetite probes are used to extract metal objects from the respiratory tract and esophagus, and, of course, jewelers and connoisseurs of beautiful jewelry love the stone.

Magnetite is an unusual stone that has the property of magnetism, incredible for nature. In addition, its healing and magical properties are known.

The origin of magnetite is quite common. The mineral is formed as a result of the interaction of granite, diorite and syenite rocks. It is present in such rocks in the form of homogeneous or disseminated masses. This origin is important for industry.

Deposits of this stone have an acidic or neutral environment and arise as a result of the dissolution of igneous rocks. The origins of the stone are formed by different rocks. Magnetite is often localized in pyroxenites and gabbros. The mineral looks like sheet deposits or individual inclusions in other minerals.

The rock is formed by metamorphism of ferruginous compounds localized on the surface. Magnetite and hematite are formed in the middle zones.

It occurs in the form of heterogeneous deposits on surface layers. In the presence of sulfide compounds, the stone is transformed into hematite or limonite. After the destruction of the rock, sulfuric acid is formed in magnetites, the environment of which provokes the processes of destruction of magnetite.

Formula

Magnetite is a mineral found in iron ore. Magnetite can be described chemical formula, like any other object of natural origin. Chemical formula: FeO×Fe2O3.
This mineral is localized in various formations and can be metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary.

The crystal shape is octahedral, which arises due to the metallic bond between iron cations different types. Thanks to this feature, it is able to form a magnetic field and attract iron. Chemical properties poorly expressed.

Mining locations

The largest volume of deposits is located in Russia and Brazil. Mining is also carried out in the USA, Canada, India and other countries in small quantities.

The largest field in area is the Kursk magnetic anomaly, extending from Smolensk to Rostov region. The reserves of this place are several times greater than all other deposits together.

Popular deposits are in the Urals, Kruglogorsk, Kusinsk and Pervouralsk. A new place of deposits was recently discovered in the Urals - Maly Kuybas, which is located near the city of Magnitogorsk.

In Kazakhstan, a large deposit is the basin of the Kustanai region. The volume of magnetite here exceeds the deposits in the Urals.

Video on topic: Magnetite sample

Physical properties

The stone has a rich black color. It has a pronounced metallic luster, but there are also matte rocks. Magnetite exhibits the properties of a weak base, slowly dissolving in water.

The mineral is not transparent. The density of magnetite is quite high and ranges from 5.5 to 6 on the Moss scale. Magnetite has pronounced ferromagnetic properties. This property contributes to a change in the correct operation of the compass, which helps locate material deposits.

Magnetic properties disappear when heated above 580 degrees Celsius. When cooled, this property is restored. Magnetite has fractures and an uneven surface.

Magic properties

Magnetite has been known to people since ancient times. Its scope of application was wide. The stone was highly popular due to its properties. Due to a lack of knowledge in physics, people could not correctly explain the nature of the phenomenon of magnetism. For this reason, they began to attribute magical properties to it and were sometimes used for medicinal purposes. In those days, the stone was considered a strong talisman and amulet, capable of protecting against the effects of evil forces.

Sorcerers made their wands from magnetite and outlined figures during rituals. The stone promotes the manifestation of a person’s magical abilities and the development of talents. According to eyewitness accounts that have survived to this day, it is known that Alexander the Great gave a stone to each of his warriors for protection from evil forces. Adherents of occult cultures still use this stone in their practice, believing in the hidden magic in magnetite.

Signs of the zodiac

Magnetite is not widely popular in astrology, but it is compatible with people of almost all signs. But it is considered desirable for Earth and Air signs. Therefore, it can be worn by Capricorns, Aries and Scopions. It is these signs that it influences more beneficially.

Medicinal properties

The unusual properties of magnetite explain its use in medicine. Famous doctors of ancient times tried to treat many diseases with magnetite various systems. Dioscorides advised people prone to depression to always have this iron ore with them. Avicenna described it medicinal properties for diseases of the digestive system. Albertus Magnus noted that if you wear a bloodstone on your left hand long time, you can recover from psychotic and hysterical conditions.

Classical philosophers Greek period mentioned him in their works. For a long time, the mineral was prescribed for oral administration, but it was later discovered that it provokes severe pain in various localizations. Mesmer succeeded in therapy with this stone. He studied its hypnotic and magnetic properties. The Minerals Commission found that the use of the stone is effective only for diseases of a nervous nature.

Currently, the stone is used in medicine for treatment by exposure to magnetic field. This field has a beneficial effect on some diseases, facilitating their treatment.

Beneficial effects of the stone:

• anti-aging effect, which is noticeable in laboratory studies on animals;
• antibacterial effect;
• relieving convulsive conditions;
• wound healing under magnetophoresis influence;
• promotes healing of damaged structures;
• relieves discomfort from varicose veins;
• improves the course of Parkinson's disease;
• helps with polio and diseases respiratory system.

How to distinguish from a fake

This mineral is not high price segment, which makes counterfeiting it not entirely profitable. Often magnetite can be confused due to its external similarity with hematite. In nature, they have a similar meaning and can replace each other. To distinguish a genuine stone, it is necessary to test it for a magnetic field; it is this difference that distinguishes it from hematite. Only magnetite in nature is capable of exhibiting magnetic properties - this is its difference.

Conclusion

If you prefer unusual stones, then magnetite should be in your collection. The stone will have a beneficial effect on your health, will surprise you with its brilliance and magnetic properties, and all this at a low price.

Magnetite is a common type of ore that different countries has different name

It has different names in different countries of the world:

• Adamam in Greece;
• Chu-shi in China;
• Eagle bone in Egypt;
• Ayman in France;
• Magness in Germany.

Magnetite has become widely used and widespread due to its ability to attract other metals.

Chemical formula and properties of the magnetite mineral

The main component of the mineral is ferric oxide (Fe2O3). Its content is 69 percent. The remaining percentage comes from FeO (ferrous oxide). The mineral substance has the full formula FeO×Fe2O3.

Magnetite is a cubic crystal. It has a spinel-like structure. This mineral structure is quite rare. Magnetite is characterized by a black color with a metallic sheen, as evidenced by numerous photos mineral. Magnetite belongs to a number of ferromagnets. Slowly dissolves in hydrochloric acid. Thanks to its magnetic properties, it is able to change compass readings, which makes it easier to find deposits of magnetic iron ore.

Deposits and areas of application

Magnetite is the second mineral after hematite that is mined from ore. Hematite is a product of the transformation of magnetite. It is enough to ignite the mineral, and it will turn into hematite. The stone is actively used in the metallurgy of ferrous metals to produce various types steels The mineral is involved in the processes of producing phosphorus, as well as vanadium. In jewelry, magnetite is not widely known due to its availability, but beautiful bracelets and beads are sometimes made from it. Magnetite is one of the sources of pure iron. Thanks to high content Metal ore is mined all over the world.

Magnetite is a mineral used in metallurgy

The largest deposits are located in Sweden. Magnetite mining is carried out in South Africa, the USA, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine. The mineral is also mined in Russia in the region of the Kursk magnetic anomaly. The Kursk magnetic anomaly is the largest iron ore deposit. It extends from Smolensk to Rostov-on-Don. The Urals are also a popular place for ore mining. Iron ore deposits were discovered in Krivoy Rog in Ukraine. A fairly large deposit was also discovered in the Kustanai region (Kazakhstan). In Western and Eastern Siberia, there are several mining sites for iron ore with magnetic properties.

On the surface the mineral occurs in the form of a placer. It can transform into martite or limonite. This transformation is facilitated by the presence of sulfides, which can enhance the process of decomposition of magnetic iron ore.

Medicinal properties

The mineral is actively used in medicine. Using probes, doctors remove metal objects from the esophagus or respiratory system. Doctors have proven that weak magnetic fields help in the treatment of polio, bronchitis, and Parkinson's disease. The mineral is also used in treatment nervous system, accelerates the healing process for various wounds and fractures. Accelerates the recovery of postpartum women after difficult births.

Magnets are also used in bracelets for biocorrection and healing of the body. You can read about the widespread use of the mineral in various newspapers and medical magazines. In ancient times, there was a so-called magnet treatment, which not only did not help, but also caused harm to patients.

Magical properties of magnetite stone

Due to its ability to attract metals, the mineral has become widespread in magical and occult sciences. This contributed to the stone acquiring the properties of a rather strong protective amulet. Stones stimulate the creation of new projects and protect against enemies. The use of magnetite helps to reveal psychic abilities. During the time of the spread of sorcerers and alchemists, the stone was considered magical.

Magnetite - has the property of improving mood

The magnetic properties of the stone made it possible to relieve bad pain and improve mood during depression. It was previously believed that magnetites could cure madness and protect against nightmares. If you wear a bracelet or beads made of magnetite, you can protect yourself from diseases of the eyes, bones and stomach. The stone can be worn as a talisman by geologists, inventors, travelers - all people associated with discoveries and new experiences.

How to identify a real stone

This stone is not counterfeited, but due to its similar color and structure it is often confused with bloodstone. They are closely related to each other. Distinctive feature The described stone is the ability to attract metals. So, it can be easily checked by bringing a small metal object.

History of the stone

IN early centuries in Europe and Asia, small pieces of magnetite were used to determine the direction of movement. A strip of magnetite served as a compass that captured the influence of the Earth's magnetic field. The arrow was hung on a thread, and it always indicated where south was.

There is also evidence of the use of the mineral by the ancient Olmecs. Tribes living in Central America carved symbols of prosperity and prosperity from blocks of magnetic iron ore - figures of fat boys. These sculptures are over three thousand years old and are located in Guatemala. Many peoples actively used magnetites as a material for mirrors.

This mineral was first discovered by the Greek shepherd Magnus, and after his name it was called magnetite. According to another version, the name of the stone comes from the name of the ancient city of Magnesia, in Asia Minor. At the same time, in almost every country magnetite received its own name. So, in China it is known as “chu-shi”, in Greece as “adamas” and “kalamita” or “Hercules stone”, in France it was called “aiman”, the inhabitants of India - “thumbaka”, in Egypt - “eagle bone” ”, in Spain - “piedramant”, in Germany - “magness” and “siegelstein”, in England - “loudstone”.

Magnetite formation usually occurs in rocks of igneous or metamorphic origin. Sometimes it is also found in the form of magnetite sand, in placers. Natural magnetite aggregates form as a dense, granular or draining mass. Interestingly, magnetite grains can often be found in a handful of sand or a sample of any other rock.

Among the industrial stone deposits, the most famous and significant today are those located in the Urals, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. The mineral, which is mined in the Irkutsk region, is famous for its bright shine and beautiful shapes. Magnetite deposits are also found in countries such as the USA, South Africa, Sweden, and Canada.

The magnetite stone, endowed with unusual properties, has been known to man for a long time. Thus, the inhabitants of China mentioned its use back in the 6th century AD. Then magnetite was used as a compass and with its help they went to explore unknown lands.

Plato described the properties of magnetite in his works. The philosopher noted the stone’s ability to attract various objects, as well as transfer its energy to them, as a result of which they also began to attract iron products, that is, the magnetization effect.

According to ancient legends, the name of the stone was given by the name of the shepherd Magnus. His shoes had iron nails, and the tip of his staff was also made of iron, which caused them to be attracted to stones. There is another version, according to which the mineral is named after the city of Magnesia, now located in Turkey. Not far from it there is a mountain that was often struck by lightning. There is a similar mountain in the Urals. It is called magnetic, and its composition is almost entirely magnetite. Mount Zimirt in Ethiopia is also made of magnetite and, according to legend, is capable of pulling nails out of ships and attracting all iron products to itself.

In general, the name of the stone has changed many times. For a long time it was known as simply “magnet”, later as “magnetic iron ore”, and only at the end of the 19th century it acquired a new name - magnetite.

By chemical nature Magnetite is a complex compound of iron (II) and (III) oxides. It is painted black with a pronounced metallic sheen; a matte surface is rare. The mineral is opaque; transparent specimens are rare. Hardness on the Mohs scale 5.5-6. The specific gravity is 4.9-5.2 g/cm3. At the fracture, the crystals are conchoidal or unevenly stepped.

The ferromagnetic properties of magnetite are very pronounced. The stone can even cause changes in the compass. When the mineral is crushed to a powder state, its magnetic properties are preserved. Magnetic sand is also attracted to magnetic poles.

Ore magnetite is mainly granular aggregates. Individual crystals are found in octahedral, rhombic dodecahedral forms, and combinations thereof. Unique natural magnetite balls are also valued.

Magnetite is known for its magical abilities since ancient times. Because of their magnetic properties it has always been popular among alchemists, magicians and sorcerers. The gem is endowed with powerful protective properties, protects its owner from all enemies. The stone is a stimulator for inventors in creating new products, helps to draw up plans and create new projects.

Magnetite also reveals and enhances psychic abilities. For these purposes, it is placed on the third eye area and meditated.

Modern lithotherapy recommends the use of magnetite for diseases of the nervous system. In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, accelerates the healing of tissues and bones in case of ulcers, wounds, fractures, and burns.

Magnetite is also used to treat disorders of the cardiovascular system, allergic dermatoses, and gynecological diseases.

For the purpose of healing and stimulating the body, special magnetic bracelets and magnetite balls are recommended.

Magnetite powder is used as a hematopoietic agent for anemia, severe blood loss and general weakness.

Since the 17th century, magnetite has been widely used in medical practice. Along with medicinal qualities, the stone also has valuable jewelry properties. It is cut into cabochons or made into balls, rosaries and beads. The main rule is that jewelry with magnetite cannot be worn without taking it off, so as not to harm the body.

Magnetite also underlies the invention of the compass, without which it is difficult to imagine the development of mankind.

Magnetite has an intense black color due to its composition and the content of iron oxides.

As an inexpensive stone, magnetite is not counterfeited, but it is often confused with hematite, which is similar in appearance. It is easy to distinguish magnetite - it is the only one among minerals that has magnetic properties.

Magnetite is undemanding in care; jewelry with it is stored separately from other stones. Clean it with a soft damp cloth.

Magnetite is recommended for all representatives of the earth and air elements, especially Capricorns and Aquarius.

A magnetite with a diameter of about 2 mm, cut into a cabochon, is estimated at about 2-3 dollars. Magnetite rosaries can be purchased for $10-15. The cost of other products depends on their setting and the complexity of the jeweler’s work.

Special massage balls made of magnetite, which are used to combat cellulite, are on average priced at $20 per set.

• Since ancient times, magnetite has been considered powerful magic stone, and all because people were afraid and did not understand its magnetic properties. Thus, gates made of magnetite did not allow armed enemies into the city. Amulets made of magnetites were considered the best protectors from all misfortunes.
• In China, there is a legend about how magnetite brought victory in battle to Emperor Huang Ti. The ruler launched a cunning attack on the enemies from the rear. But there was thick fog and in order to reach the desired position, the emperor used magnetite figurines in the form of men with with outstretched arm. This was the prototype of the modern compass.
• The healing properties of magnetite were discovered at the end of the 18th century, after the doctor Friedrich Mesmer used it to treat a patient who had convulsions, paralysis and constant severe headaches. The doctor used all the remedies known at that time, but nothing helped. Then he tried to apply strong magnets to the patient’s body and relief came literally immediately. After a course of procedures, the woman fully recovered. And doctors began to widely use magnetite in their practice. Today, mineral-based massage balls are especially popular.

Magnetite iron mineral, formula, chemical composition, description, photo, properties, ore, where to find and how to mine, deposits, origin

Synonyms: magnetic iron ore.

Magnetite - chromite group

Magnetite ore mineral used by humans since ancient times.

Origin of the name

The origin of the mineral's name is unclear. The name appears to be given from the area (Magnesia) bordering Macedonia. It is also possible that the origin of the name is related to the legends of Magnes, a shepherd who first found this mineral after noticing that the iron tip of his staff and the nails of his boots were sticking to the ground.

Magnetite formula

Octahedral magnetite crystals Photo

Fe 3 + (Fe 2+ Fe 3+)O 4, abbreviated formulas are also used: Fe 2+ Fe 3+ 2 O 4 - FeFe 2 O 4 or even - Fe 3 O 4.

Chemical composition

Magnetite- the most iron-rich oxide. FeO - 31.03%, Fe2O3 - 68.97%. Fe content - 72.4%. It is usually relatively pure in composition.

Other members of the magnetite series:

• Magnesioferrite -MgFe 2 O 4
• Franklinite - ZnFe2O4
• Jacobsite - MnFe2O4
• Trevorite - NiFe 2 O 4
• Ulvöspinel - TiFe 2 O 4

Varieties

1. Titanomagnetite - it would be more correct to write Ti-magnetite, i.e. titanium magnetite which contains TiO2 (up to several percent), existing at high temperatures in the form of a solid solution of ulvöspinel Fe2+(Fe2+Ti4+)O4 in magnetite, ulvöspinel precipitates in the magnetite matrix during the decomposition of the solid solution, usually oxidizing further to ilmenite. Many titanomagnetites are characterized by the presence of a significant admixture of coulsonite, which makes such varieties an industrially important source of vanadium.

2. Kulsonite - vanadium magnetite - Fe2+V3+2O4 (abbreviated as (Fe, V)30 4) contains up to 4.84% vanadium.

3. Cr-magnetite with Cr2O3 content (up to several percent).

4. Occasionally found differences, rich in MgO (in Mg magnetite up to 10%), Al2O3 (15%), etc.

5. Maghemite - (initial letters of words magnetite and hematite). Relatively rare in nature, ferromagnetic iron oxide γ Fe 2 O 3 cubic system.

Crystallographic characteristics

Cubic crystal system; hexaoctahedral c. With. O h 7 Fd3m, Z = 8 a 0 = 8.374 A.

Magnetite at - 178° becomes rhombic, a 0 - 5.91, b 0 = 5.945, c 0 = 8.39

The crystal structure is that of an inverted spinel. B A B O 4

The structure is the reverse of spinel, since half of the ferric atoms are located in the tetrahedral voids of the closest cubic packing, while the ferrous iron atoms, along with the other half of the ferric atoms, are located in the octahedral voids of the structure. Therefore, the magnetite formula should be written as follows: Fe3+(Fe2+Fe3+) O 4.

Form of mineral occurrence in nature Photo

Crystal Appearance

In accordance with the structure, magnetite crystals are almost always octahedral, but are also known
and rhombic dodecahedral.

Magnetite. Octahedral crystals in slate

The faces (110) are often covered with streaks parallel to the long diagonal of the diamonds. Dendrites appear as nanoparticles in basalt glass under a microscope.

Doubles by (111).

Aggregates

Mostly found in continuous granular masses or as inclusions in igneous, predominantly basic rocks. In the voids you can find druses of crystals. Oolites are found in sedimentary rocks.

Under natural conditions, oxidation of magnetite very often occurs - a process of martitization, sometimes leading to complete pseudomorphs of hematite into magnetite (martite). The reverse process, known as musketovitization, occurs when hematite undergoes reduction.

Physical properties

Optical properties of the crystal

The color of magnetite is iron-black to brown, sometimes with a bluish tarnish on the crystals.

The line is black (powder color).

The luster is metallic or semi-metallic.

Opaque. Only the thinnest fragments allow light to pass through; n = 2.42.

Mechanical

Origin

Magnetite- the most common oxide in hypogene conditions.

Unlike hematite, magnetite forms under more reducing conditions and occurs in a wide variety of genetic deposit types and rocks.

Its main deposits are of igneous, contact-metasomatic and regionally metamorphic origin. Magnetite is also found in hydrothermal deposits.

1. In igneous rocks it is usually observed in the form of inclusions. Magnetic deposits of titanomagnetite in the form of irregular shape clusters and veins.

2. It is present in small quantities in many pegmatites in paragenesis with biotite, sphene, apatite and other minerals.

3. B contact-metasomatic formations it often plays a very significant role, accompanied by garnets, pyroxenes, chlorites, sulfides, calcite and other minerals. Large deposits are known that formed at the contact of limestones with granites and syenites.

4. How is a magnetite satellite found in hydrothermal deposits, mainly in association with sulfides (pyrrhotite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, etc.). Relatively rarely, it forms independent deposits in association with sulfides, apatite and other minerals. The largest deposits of this type in Russia are known in the Angaro-Ilim region of Siberia.

5. Under exogenous conditions magnetite formation can only occur in exceptional cases. The presence of magnetite grains in modern marine mud is believed to be the result not only of their removal from land in the form of detrital material, but also of new formation in situ by iron hydroxides under the reducing influence of decaying organic matter.

6. During regional metamorphism, magnetite, like hematite, appears during the dehydration of iron hydroxides formed in sedimentary rocks during exogenous processes, but under reducing conditions (with a lack of oxygen). These types of formations include many large-sized bedded deposits of hematite-magnetite ores found among metamorphosed sedimentary strata.

In the oxidation zone it is a relatively stable mineral. When weathered, it is very difficult to hydrate, that is, transform into iron hydroxides. This process is rarely observed
and relatively in very small sizes.

Phenomenon martitization(formation of hematite pseudomorphs on magnetite) is observed in hot climate zones. Locally manifested martitization of magnetite is also established in hydrothermal and metamorphosed deposits without any connection with exogenous processes.

During the mechanical destruction of rocks, it, freed from its companions, turns into placers everywhere. Therefore, they concentrate in river and sea sands, sometimes creating a magnetite beach. In black concentrates obtained by washing gold-bearing sands, magnetite is the main part.

Photo of octahedral crystals in slate

Practical Application

Magnetite, like hematite, is the most important ore for iron. Titanium magnetites serve as vanadium ore.

Magnetite ores, often containing about 60% iron, are the most important raw material for the smelting of iron and steel. Harmful impurities in ore are phosphorus, the content of which during the Bessemer smelting method should not exceed 0.05%, and for high-quality metal - 0.03%, and sulfur, the maximum maximum content of which should not exceed 1.5%. When melting ore according to the Thomas method, in which phosphorus is converted into slag, its content should be no lower than 0.61 and no higher than 1.50%. The resulting phosphorous slag is called Thomasslag and is used as a fertilizer.

When smelting titanomagnetite ores, vanadium, which has great value in the production of quality steels. Vanadium pentoxide is also used in the chemical industry, and as a dye in ceramics, and for other purposes.

How magnetite is mined Deposits

Of the numerous deposits in Russia, we will give only a few examples.

To the number igneous deposits applies Kusinsky deposit titanomagnetite, which also contains an increased amount of vanadium (in the Urals, 18 km north of Zlatoust). This deposit is represented by veins of solid ores occurring among the parent altered igneous rocks of the gabbro formation. Magnetite is closely associated here with ilmenite and chlorite.

The Kopan Ti-magnetite deposit is being developed in the Southern Urals.

Example contact metasomatic deposits is famous Mount Magnitnaya(Southern Urals).

Thick magnetite deposits are located among garnet, pyroxene-garnet and garnet-epidote skarns, formed by the action of granite magma on limestones. In some areas of ore deposits, magnetite is associated with primary hematite. Ores occurring below the oxidation zone contain disseminated sulfides (pyrite, occasionally chalcopyrite,