Magnetite, also known as magnetic iron ore or ferroferite, is a mineral from the class of oxides that is widespread in nature. It earned its name for its ability to attract iron due to the octandric shape of the crystals, which in one position have twice as many metal cations as in another. There is also a theory that magnetite was named after Magnes, the shepherd who discovered it.
Description and formula of the mineral
Magnetite formula: FeO (31%) Fe2O3 (69%), may include others chemical elements. This mineral is the most iron-rich oxide. The metal content is in the range of 71%, although purer forms are also found.
Other characteristics:
- The color of this magnetic ore is iron-black;
- hardness is 5.5-6;
- metallic, metallic and matte luster;
- the mineral is opaque;
- has magnetic properties;
- density is 4.9-5.2 g/cm³;
- does not have perfect cleavage;
- conchoidal fracture.
Magnetite of a mineral nature is found in the form of individual crystals (rhombic dodecahedrons, octahedra, etc.) with inclusions, loose or granular masses, placers.
Crystals are found grown or ingrown. Cubic system.
Distinctive characteristics: magnetic iron ore can be easily recognized by appearance, metallic black color and magnetic properties.
Varieties of ferroferite
Magnetite has several variations. They differ from each other in shape and composition:
Origin and formation
Magnetite is common in hypogene conditions. It is found in the most different types rocks and in other deposits (hydrothermal, for example). Magnetic iron ore is formed in contact zones of magmas of granitic origin, as well as diorite and syenite composition containing limestone. In such basic (less often - in neutral or acidic) deposits, ferroferite occurs in the form of continuous masses or inclusions in the parent rock.
Often forms layered deposits. The origin of magnetic iron ore is associated with the differentiation of magma. Under the influence of pressure and temperature at great depths, metamorphism of previously surface iron compounds occurs.
In the form of placer, magnetic iron ore is found mainly in surface conditions.
Largest natural sites
Russia has the largest reserves of magnetite: its territory contains more than half of the world's iron ore reserves. Brazil is in second place.
On the eastern slope of the Southern Urals on the left bank of the Ural River there is Magnetic Mountain. Its composition consists almost entirely of ferroferite and has been used for the extraction of raw materials for many years. Up to 1 million tons of iron ore are mined annually.
Within the Kursk, Oryol and Belgorod regions The most powerful reserve of iron ore deposits on the globe is located, which is otherwise called the Kursk magnetic anomaly.
One of the largest iron ore deposits is located in the El Mutun mountains, near Puerto Suarez, Bolivia.
Application in various fields
Some people believe that magnetite has some magical properties. For example, it had the role of a stone endowed with magic, which was used by sorcerers and alchemists. It was used as a protective stone against enemies, carried with them or kept in the house. Magnetite promotes the discovery of new abilities and creative potential, puts you in a working mood, is a symbol of innovation.
IN modern medicine The use of magnetite in health procedures in the treatment of the autonomic and vascular systems is widespread and, as the data says, quite successfully.
Magnetite is an iron oxide mineral. The name comes from Greek word"magnetis", which means "magnet". The material received this name for its magnetic properties, which are rare in nature.
Story
The first mention of this exceptional mineral dates back to the 6th century BC. in ancient works and manuscripts of Asian countries, Central America and Europe talks about natural stones capable of attracting iron. The names of magnetite in those days were different in each country, but almost all of them were translated as “iron-loving” stone.
In chronicles dating back to the 2nd century BC. The first mentions of the use of magnetite ores are found. He was indispensable Ancient India. Thanks to the magnetic properties of the mineral, it was possible to extract arrowheads and other iron fragments from the wounds of warriors. According to legend, in ancient Chinese city there was a gate that had magical protective powers. They did not allow the armed forces into the city, attracting all the iron equipment of the fighters.
But the truly important ancient invention was the compass. Created on the basis of magnetite, it accurately indicated the location of parts of the world. Invented in China in the second millennium BC. the compass was borrowed by Europeans already in the Middle Ages and subsequently great geographical discoveries were made with its help.
There are many versions about the origin of the name of the mineral. The most famous legends about the magnetic stone come from Ancient Greece. According to one of these legends, the mineral is named after the shepherd Magnes, who was one of the first to notice unusual properties black stones attract the iron parts of his shoes and staff. According to another version, magnetite was named after an area in Macedonia called Magnesia.
In Russia, magnetite was called “magnetic iron ore.” Currently, this name of the mineral is considered obsolete.
Description of magnetite: physical and chemical properties of the mineral
Magnetite is an iron oxide compound. Its chemical formula is FeO, Fe2O3.
Magnetite is an opaque black mineral aggregate with metallic shine. Some mineral samples may have a blue tarnish towards the edge. There are also specimens that lack a metallic sheen. They are impenetrably matte. Distinctive feature What distinguishes magnetite from other iron ores is its conchoidal fracture and black color of fine powder.
Specific gravity magnetite is 4.9-5.2 g/cm3. The mineral, despite its hardness equal to 5.5 – 6 on the Mohs scale, is a rather brittle material. Physical indicators of magnet density are 5 - 5.2 g/cm3. It is a cubic mineral.
The mineral magnetite acts as a semiconductor and has low electrical conductivity. At the same time, it is highly magnetic. Some specimens are polar magnetic and act as natural magnets. Cleavage is completely absent.
Magnetite ores are rarely found in pure form. Usually the mineral contains an admixture of other metals in its composition.
Depending on the impurity content, the following types of magnetite are distinguished:
- Titanomagnetite – has a high titanium content in its composition;
- Chromium magnetite – contains chromium;
- Vanadium magnetite or coulsonite – contains vanadium;
Also, magnetites can have isomorphic admixtures of Mn, Al, Cr, Zn and Ca.
Magnetite deposits
The main deposits of magnetite are rocks igneous, regional-metamorphic and contact-metasomatic origin.
Russia occupies a leading position in magnetite ore reserves. One of the largest deposits in Russia is the Kursk Magnetic Anomaly. The magnetite reserves of the Kursk Magnetic Anomaly are three times greater than the magnetite reserves of the rest of the world combined. Rich in deposits of magnetite ores and Ural Mountains. On their territory there are the Kusinskoye, Kruglogorskoye and Pervouralskoye deposits. A relatively new deposit of magnetite ores is Maly Kuibas. It is located on Southern Urals near the city of Magnitogorsk.
Magnetite deposits located in Siberia and on Far East Russia.
Mountains rich in magnetite are also located in countries such as Brazil, Canada, India, Australia, the USA and others.
Areas of application of magnetite
The scope of application of magnetite is quite wide. Magnetite found its main use in metallurgy. It is one of the main types of iron ores in industry. It is used to produce specialized steels. Important chemical elements such as titanium and vanadium are also extracted from magnetite ores.
This mineral is also used in the medical field. For example, probes made of magnetite are indispensable when removing foreign objects from gastrointestinal tract and human respiratory tract.
In jewelry, beads, rings, bracelets and other jewelry are made from the mineral, which are cheap and durable to use.
The healing effect of magnetite
In the 17th century, descriptions of the first practices of healing with magnets were found. At that time it was believed that magnetite could have a beneficial effect on the human nervous and cardiovascular systems. This one is especially popular medical practice acquired since 1770. This year, the physician Friedrich Anton Mesmer developed the doctrine of animal magnetism and applied it in practice. The basis of his treatment were magnets, which, by force magnetic field cured various neurological diseases. This is how he cured one of his patients, who suffered from constant headaches and convulsions. After this case Treatment with magnets began to be carried out everywhere.
Currently, the stone is used in medicine to treat a number of diseases. The healing and antibacterial effect that magnetite has has been proven. The stone promotes wound healing and healing of damaged tissue. Spotted beneficial influence for varicose veins. The mineral alleviates the course of diseases such as polio and Parkinson’s disease, as well as respiratory and nervous system person. It has a rejuvenating effect, which has been proven by laboratory research on animals.
Magical abilities of magnetite
Ancestors, unable to explain the physical properties of the mineral, attributed magical powers to magnetite. Among ancient peoples, the stone was considered a talisman against enemies, and they believed in its strong protective functions. During excavations in many states ancient world Sculptures and figurines made of magnetite were found that served as amulets.
It is believed that the stone helps its owner achieve goals and provides an incentive to achieve innovative ideas and solutions.
Minerals have also found use in magic. Magnetite is one of the materials used by sorcerers and psychics. It is believed that amulets made from magnetite allow one to reveal beyond one’s abilities and enhance the magical abilities of the owner.
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 ancient city 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 “stone of Hercules”, in France it was called “ayman”, 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. Mineral that is mined in Irkutsk region, are famous for their 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 ability of the stone to attract various items, as well as transferring their 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 simply as “magnet”, later as “lodestone”, 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 has been known for its magical powers since ancient times. Because of its 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 was considered a powerful magical 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 he stood thick fog and in order to reach the desired position, the emperor used magnetite figurines in the form of men with an 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 it to the patient's body strong magnets 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 is a common mineral that has magnetic properties. Its ability to attract iron has been known since ancient times. The origin of the name is not reliably known. It is usually associated with Magnesia (Magnesia), a historical region in Eastern Greece. According to legend, there once lived here ancient tribe magnets, who were the descendants of the mythical Magnet - the son of Zeus and Phia.
Allegedly, in ancient times, significant mineral deposits were discovered in these places. They were known under the general name “magnetis lithos” - “stone from Magnesia”, which was used not only in relation to magnetic iron ore, but also to magnesium minerals - magnesite and periclase, as well as to manganese oxide pyrolusite. It is worth noting that in addition to Thessalian Magnesia, in the south of Europe and Asia Minor in ancient times there were several more historical areas with a similar name. In addition, no large magnetite deposits have yet been discovered in this region.
There is also a legend about a Greek shepherd named Magnes, who was tending goats in the mountains and noticed that the iron nails from the soles of his sandals had disappeared (or the iron staff was stuck to the rock). This story may seem plausible. Especially if you forget that iron in those distant times was not much cheaper than gold. Yes, probably the peasants then did not wear sandals or shoes with soles, but something simpler: onuchi or tsarvuli - pieces of goat skin sewn with the tendons of the same domestic animals.
Magnetite belongs to the spinel group. The composition is iron oxide (FeO Fe2O3). Opaque. The color is dark gray to black with a metallic sheen.
Fragile. Hardness: 5.5 - 6. Average specific gravity: 5 g/cm3. Melting point: 1591°C. Dissolves in hydrochloric acid. Magnetic properties associated with the exchange of electrons between divalent and trivalent iron atoms. Even in ancient times, it was noted that if magnetite is calcined, it turns into bloodstone () and loses its attractive force.
In the 17th century, it was found that to lose magnetism it is enough to heat it to a much lower temperature. Nowadays it is known that it is 588°C. Such an abrupt change in properties is characteristic not only of ferromagnets. IN modern science This sharp transition temperature is called the Curie point.
Magnetite contains about 72% iron and is one of its industrial sources. It is quite widespread in different breeds genetic types and often forms large ore deposits. Usually stands out in continuous masses; occurs as well-formed cubic or octahedral crystals. The dark dots of its tiny grains give the jade a decorative appearance. It is a rock-forming mineral in some ornamental rocks, for example, jaspilite.
Magnetite cannot be called a uniquely beautiful collectible mineral, however, it is correct, perfect form octahedra can be found in almost every mineralogical collection. Large crystals are found on the Kola Peninsula (Kovdor), in the Middle and Southern Urals (Shabrovskoye talc deposit, Zelentsovskaya mine), in Chukotka (Koryak Highlands). Crystals larger than 25 cm are found in Central Sweden (Västmanland), Mozambique (Tete).
In the north of South Africa (Griquatown) they mine the so-called “ iron eye" - a decorative rock composed of magnetite and hematite. Cabochons made from this stone have a beautiful iridescence. IN jewelry“black jade”, found in the middle of the last century in California (USA), is also used. This unique rock is composed of small magnetite grains coated the thinnest film native gold. Banded ferruginous quartzite (jaspilite), used as an ornamental stone, is found in many countries.
Since ancient times, the unusual properties of magnetite have aroused curiosity and excited the imagination. The first mention of this mineral dates back to the middle of the 1st millennium BC. Pythagoras, Hippocrates, Plato, Aristotle wrote about him. The ancient Greek military doctor Pedanius Dioscorides endowed the magnetic stone with the ability to relieve melancholy and depression. Pliny the Elder considered it useful in eye diseases. Avicenna recommended magnetite for the treatment of the digestive system.
Interest in its medicinal properties has not waned even more late times. Their detailed study was carried out by U.G. Colchester (1544-1603) - court physician to Queen Elizabeth I of England. He found that ingesting magnets causes severe pain in the abdominal area. In 1877, it was created in France special commission for check medicinal properties natural ferromagnets. After careful research, scientists have recognized something beneficial effect magnets, but not on internal organs, and for diseases arising from the nervous system.
Since then, a massive passion for magnetotherapy began. The so-called “magnetic water” was drunk at night, used for bathing, gastric lavage, enemas, etc. At the same time, in many pharmacies European countries(including in Russia) began selling therapeutic magnetic bracelets.
Research healing properties magnetite continues to this day. After conducting mass examinations, it was proven that weak magnetic fields can have a beneficial effect in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, polio, chronic bronchitis, and some other diseases. But prolonged exposure to a strong magnetic field can only bring harm(!).
The importance of magnetite is difficult to overestimate. This inconspicuous dark gray mineral played a colossal role in the development of human civilization.
Its artificial analogue is electromagnets - the basis of all electrical engineering. Modern automation, navigation, and accelerators are unthinkable without magnets. elementary particles, control of metal production and much, much more. Of course, audio and video tape recorders are a thing of the past, however, the information on your computer’s hard drive is recorded on a magnetic coating, and it is rotated by an electric motor, the operation of which is based on the same magnetic properties.
In the world of minerals, there are many gems that delight with their magnificent color, “play” and bright shine. Probably, they can conditionally be called aristocrats. There are stones that combine external beauty and undeniable practical benefits, for example, -. But the greatest, sometimes invaluable help to man at all times has been brought by working minerals, such as magnetite. These stones are often unsightly in appearance and are not called precious, but where would we be without them?
Magnificent blue has long been considered a talisman for travelers and sailors, but the world's first compass was made from a real guiding stone - a nondescript dark gray magnetite.
Magnetite(from the Greek “magnetis” - magnet) - a mineral from the oxide class: a mixture of iron (II) and (III) oxides. Synonym: magnetic iron ore. There are two versions of the origin of the name: in the first, the mineral was discovered by a Greek shepherd named Magnes; the second version is associated with the name of a place in Macedonia, Magnesia. Chemical formula: FeO Fe 2 O 3 .
The luster is metallic, metallic or matte magnetite. Hardness 5.5-6. Specific gravity 4.9-5.2 g/cm3. Iron black color. The line is black. Magnetic. A piece of magnetic iron ore mined on Mount Vysokaya has been holding a 50-kilogram weight by force of magnetic attraction for more than a century. There is no cleavage. Solid granular, dense or loose (magnetite sand) masses, individual crystals (octahedra, rhombic dodecahedrons), twins; inclusions; placers. Cubic system. Crystals are ingrown or built up.
Features . Magnetite is easily recognized by its permanent iron-black color, black streak, and magnetism. Looks like chromium iron ore. The difference is that the chromium iron ore has a brown streak; In addition, magnetic iron ore is magnetic.
Chemical properties . The powder dissolves in hydrochloric acid when heated.
Variety. Titanomagnetite, contains TiO 2.
Magnetite. Photo by Rob Lavinsky Magnetite with calcite inclusions. Photo by Norbert Kaiser Magnetite. Photo by Rob Lavinsky A combination of magnetite and hematite. Photo by Rob Lavinsky A combination of magnetite and hematite. Photo by Rob Lavinsky
Origin of magnetite
Origin Magnetite deposits of contact-metasomatic origin are of great industrial importance. Magnetite is formed in the contact zone of granite magmas, magmas of syenite, diorite composition with limestones. In these deposits it occurs in the form of continuous masses and inclusions. Deposits of igneous origin are associated with basic, less often acidic and intermediate igneous rocks and represent the result of differentiation of magma. Magnetite is usually found in gabbro and pyroxenites. It is found in the form of inclusions in source rocks or forms thick stratal deposits. Magnetite is formed as a result of metamorphism of iron compounds of surface origin under the influence of high pressure And high temperature in deep conditions. The formation of magnetite and hematite is observed in the ore veins of the hypo- and mesozone.
Under surface conditions, magnetite is quite stable, so it is often found in placers. Sometimes it transforms into hematite (martite) or limonite. This is facilitated by the presence of sulfides, mainly pyrite, the destruction of which is accompanied by the formation of sulfuric acid, which enhances the process of magnetite decomposition.
Satellites. In contacts: calcite, hematite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, apatite. In ore veins: hematite, siderite. In quartzites: quartz, hematite. Products chemical change: hematite (martite), limonite, siderite.
Application
Magnetite is the most important iron ore. Pure iron is used in chemical laboratories, in precision special devices. “White iron” does not rust, it is eternal. The Chandragupta Column in Delhi has stood for 15 centuries, as if it was made just yesterday.
Magnetite deposits
The main reserves of iron ore are located in Russia (about half of the world's reserves). Then come Brazil, Canada, India, Australia, South Africa, USA, UK and Sweden.
The world's greatest depository of iron ore is the Kursk magnetic anomaly, which stretches from Smolensk to Rostov-on-Don. The identified iron ore reserves of the KMA exceed the resources of Brazil, India, Canada and the United States combined. The iron ore resources of the KMA are three times greater than the remaining iron ore reserves globe.
The deposits of the Urals (mountains Magnitnaya, Blagodat, Vysokaya, Kachkanar), Kruglogorskoye, Kusinskoye (near Zlatoust) and Pervouralskoye deposits are famous. A new deposit of magnetic iron ore has been discovered in the Urals - Maly Kuibas, located near the city of Magnitogorsk. Magnetite deposits are found in Mountain Shoria(Timertau, Telbes) and the Minusinsk Basin (Abakanskoe). Magnetite is found together with hematite in Krivoy Rog (Ukraine).
Large deposit iron ore discovered in Lately in Kazakhstan – Kustanay region (Sokolovo-Sarbaiskoe, etc.). it contains more iron ore than all the deposits of the Urals combined.
Currently great importance acquire the Angaro-Ilimsky iron ore basin Eastern Siberia, Tagar group of magnetite deposits (Middle Angara region), Olenegorskoye and Kovdorskoye iron ore deposits (Murmansk region), Kostomukshinskoye (Karelia), magnetite deposits in the Far East - Pionerskoye, Sivagli, Desovskoye, deposits in the Olekma and Chara river basin. Largest in western Siberia A magnetite ore deposit was discovered in the Kholzunsky ridge (Altai Territory).