Processing and application of unique magnetite. Magnetic iron ore (magnetite): chemical formula, properties Black magnetite


Name " magnetite" comes from the name of the Greek shepherd Magnes, who first found it. Magnetite (an outdated synonym is “magnetic iron ore”). The name “magnetite” comes from the ancient city of Magnesia in Asia Minor. In different countries, magnetite (or magnet) was called differently. The Chinese called it his "chu-shi", the Greeks - "adamas" and "kalamita", "Hercules stone", the French - "aiman", the Indians - "thumbaka", the Egyptians - "eagle bone", the Spaniards - "piedramante", the Germans - " Magness" and "Ziegelstein", the English - "Loadstone".

Origin and chemical composition

In most cases, the formation of magnetite occurs in rocks of igneous or metamorphic origin. Less commonly, the mineral accumulates in placers, forming magnetite sands. Magnetite aggregates in nature take the form of dense, confluent or granular masses. The properties of the mineral are explained by the specific structure of its crystals. The chemical composition is triiron tetroxide.

Magnetite price


Magnetite is not widely used as a jewelry and ornamental stone, so its cost is low. A cabochon with a diameter of about 2 mm will cost 1.5-2 dollars, magnetite rosary - 10-15 dollars.

Physico-chemical properties of magnetite

  • Chemical formula - FeO·Fe2O3.
  • Color - gray, brown, black.
  • The system is cubic.
  • Hardness - 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale.
  • Density - 5-5.2 g per cm3.
  • The fracture is conchoidal.

Processing and use

Magnetic iron ore is the second most important ore mineral after. In ferrous metallurgy enterprises, magnetite is used to produce special steels. In the chemical industry it is used to produce phosphorus and vanadium. Doctors use magnetite probes to remove metal objects from the esophagus and respiratory tract. In jewelry, sometimes bracelets, rosaries and beads are made from the mineral.

Magnetite deposits

The largest industrial deposits of magnetite are located in Sweden. The USA, South Africa, Norway and Ukraine have significant reserves of the mineral. In Russia, development is carried out in the zone of the famous Kursk magnetic anomaly, as well as in Siberia and the Urals.

How to distinguish from a fake

The low cost of natural magnetite makes counterfeiting impractical. However, externally, magnetite can easily be confused with similar hematite. Even in nature they often replace each other. To identify genuine magnetite, you need to know that among natural minerals only it has the ability to attract metals.

Magic properties of magnetite

Since ancient times, many magical properties have been attributed to magnetite. It is considered a strong protective stone that protects against enemies. It stimulates innovation and invention, helps in drawing up new plans and organizing a new enterprise. Magnetite helps to reveal (or enhance) extraordinary abilities. If it is placed in the area of ​​the “third eye,” a bridge appears that connects ordinary consciousness with superconsciousness.

Due to its property of magnetism, this mineral has gained fame as a magic stone among sorcerers and alchemists.

Medicinal properties.

In modern medicine, magnetite is used to treat the autonomic nervous system and improve the nervous regulation of the body. It has an anti-inflammatory effect, accelerates tissue regeneration processes in trophic ulcers, wounds, bone fractures, and the consequences of burns, reduces the sensitivity of the receptor apparatus (has an analgesic effect).

Magnetite plays a special role in the treatment of the circulatory system and heart diseases (coronary heart disease, hypertension, etc.). There is evidence that magnetite helps with joint pain, headaches, sclerosis, chronic venous insufficiency, allergic and itchy dermatoses, and inflammatory diseases of the female genital area.


Magnetite is used in special magnetic bracelets, various biocorrectors and balls to stimulate and heal the body. Since ancient times, magnetite has been used in medicine in the form of crushed powder as a hematopoietic agent for anemia, severe blood loss and general weakness, that is, when the body needs iron, which is part of the blood. Pliny the Elder in his descriptions indicated that magnetite helps in the treatment of eyes, burns and wounds.

Horoscope

Magnetite can be worn by people born under the signs of Earth and Air, which include Capricorn and Aquarius.

Story

Crystals of a mineral called magnetis were known to the inhabitants of Ancient Greece. Shepherd Magnes, walking through the forest, noticed unusual stones that attracted nails from the sole of his shoes and the tip of his staff. In the Middle Ages, magnetis was renamed magnetic iron ore; the official term “magnetite” appeared only in 1845.

From the time of the first civilizations to the present day, people have endowed magnetite with magical properties. The gate, made of mineral, did not allow armed ill-wishers into the city. Being unaware of the physical explanation of this phenomenon, magnetite was considered a powerful protective amulet. In fact, the secret of the magic gate was the ability of dense masses of mineral to attract metal objects.

According to Chinese legend, magnetite once helped Emperor Huang Ti win a battle. The ruler conceived a trick, deciding to attack the enemy from the rear. That day there was thick fog over the sea, so the maneuver promised to be successful. But Huang Ti saw danger in the bad weather. He found a way out of this difficult situation by using magnetite figurines in the form of a man with an outstretched arm. This was the first compass in human history.

Properties of the mineral

Has magnetic properties. Can change compass readings. You can find it by this sign: the compass needle points to magnetite and its deposits.

Can be abraded into sand, which does not lose its magnetic properties. When you approach a magnet, magnetite sand is attracted to the poles of the magnet.

Distribution in nature

Distributed very widely, forms large clusters and ore deposits. It occurs in the form of octahedral and rhombododecahedral crystals, often forming druses, crystalline intergrowths and brushes. Also dense confluent masses, phenocrysts in shales and other metamorphic rocks, disseminated and banded ores. It is also found in the form of rounded grains in sedimentary rocks and placers.

Magnetic sand is small rounded crystals of magnetite. It has the same properties as magnetite (hardness, density, etc.). Magnetite is much less common in nature. Can form bizarre shapes when applied to a magnet. It can also form adhesions.

Deposits

Industrial magnetite deposits are associated with igneous rocks of gabbro (Kopanskoye and Kusinskoye deposits, Urals) and gabbro-pyroxenite-dunite (Kachkanarskoye and Gusevogorskoye deposits, Urals) formations; with syenites (Kirunavara and others, Sweden); with ultrabasic alkaline rocks and carbonatites (Afrikanda, Kovdor, Kola Peninsula; Sukulu, Uganda; Lulekop, South Africa); with contact-metasomatic formations (Magnitogorsk, Vysokogorskoye, Goroblagodatskoye deposits, the Urals; Dashkesanskoye, Azerbaijan CCP; deposits of Khakassia, Turgai province, etc.); with traps (Korshunovskoye, Tagarskoye, Neryundinskoye fields, etc., eastern Siberia); with volcanic-sedimentary rocks (Atasu region, Kazakhstan). The largest deposits of metamorphogenic magnetite are associated with ferruginous quartzites (Krivoy Rog basin of Ukraine; KMA; Olenegorsk deposit, Kola Peninsula; Kostomuksha deposit, Karelia; deposits of Canada, Brazil, Venezuela, Lake Superior region, USA).

Application

  • Important iron ore (72.4% iron). Magnetite ores are the main type of iron ores; Ti and V are also extracted along the way. The main enrichment method is wet magnetic separation in a weak field. Combined enrichment schemes (magnetic-gravitational, roasting-magnetic, magnetic flotation, etc.) are used for complex, incl. titanomagnetite and low-grade ores.
  • Products made from fused magnetite are used as electrodes for some electrochemical processes.

See also

  • Maghemite (gamma - Fe 2 O 3)
  • Hematite (alpha - Fe 2 O 3)

Links

  • Magnetite in the mindat.org database (English)
  • Magnetite in the webmineral.com database (English)

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Synonyms:

See what “Magnetite” is in other dictionaries:

    Or magnetic iron ore, mineral, iron oxide Fe3O4. Named, according to Pliny the Elder, after the mythical Greek shepherd Magnes, who first found this mineral. Color black, metallic luster. Hardness 5.5 6, density up to 5.2. Strongly… … Collier's Encyclopedia

    M l gr. Ferrispinels, Fe2+Fe3+2O4. Forms an isomorphic series with magnesioferrite MgFe2O4 and continuous series with other schnellids. Fe2+ ​​is replaced by Mg, Mn2+, Ni, and Fe3+ by V, Cr, Ti, Al. Often contains increased amount of Fe2O3 transition to maghemite. Cube... ... Geological encyclopedia

    - (magnetic iron ore) mineral of the complex oxide subclass, FeFe2O4. Iron black crystals, granular masses. Hardness 5.5 6.0; density 5.2 g/cm³. Ferrimagnetic. Metamorphic in origin (found in quartzites and crystalline... ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

    - (Fe3O4), oxide mineral, iron (II) iron (III) oxide. The most magnetic mineral, a valuable iron ore that can be found in Igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks. Represents octagonal and twelve-sided crystals... ... Scientific and technical encyclopedic dictionary

    MAGNETITE, magnetite, many. no, husband (mineral). Same as magnetic iron ore. Ushakov's explanatory dictionary. D.N. Ushakov. 1935 1940 ... Ushakov's Explanatory Dictionary

    Exist., number of synonyms: 4 magnetic iron ore (1) mineral (5627) ore (76) ... Dictionary of synonyms

    magnetite- Magn. iron ore, spinel group mineral, comp. from complex oxide FeO Fe2O3; contains 31% FeO, 69% Fe2O3; 72.4% Fe; impurities of MgO, Cr2O3, Al2O3, MnO, ZnO, etc. are often present. The density of metal is 4.8–5.3 g/cm3. Color black, glitter... ... Technical Translator's Guide

    - (German magnetit (gr. magnetis magnet) magnetic iron ore mineral, a complex oxide of divalent and trivalent iron with impurities of magnesium, less often manganese, chromium, titanium, etc. from the group of spinels (ferri spinel); black, dense, with a semi-metallic luster; … … Dictionary of foreign words of the Russian language

    Magnetite- magnetic iron ore, a mineral of the spinel group, consisting of a complex oxide FeO Fe2O3; contains 31% FeO, 69% Fe2O3; 72.4% Fe; impurities of MgO, Cr2O3, Al2O3, MnO, ZnO, etc. are often present. The density of magnetite is 4.8 5.3 g/cm3. Color black... Encyclopedic Dictionary of Metallurgy

    MAGNETITE- – mineral, Fe3O4, ferrospinel. Specific gravity 5.2 g/cm3, ao=0.8396, packing density 0.157. Ferrimagnet, specific saturation magnetization Js=92Am2/kg, Curie point Tc=580°C. The peculiarity of magnetite is the presence of an isotropic point (143°C) and a point... ... Palaeomagnetology, petromagnetology and geology. Dictionary-reference book.

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 in 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 and 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 there was thick fog and in order to reach the desired position, the emperor used magnetite figures 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 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 mineral formations are iron ores that not only contain iron, but are also capable of attracting it. The unique properties of this breed are widely used in various fields of science and production. Let's look at the mineral magnetite in more detail: its characteristics, deposits, properties and methods of application.

Characteristics of the mineral

This mineral belongs to the class of oxides. The chemical formula of magnetite is Fe3O4 (or FeO Fe2O3), however, it often contains various impurities (manganese, aluminum, zinc, etc.).

The mineral comes in black, dark gray or dark brown colors and has a metallic sheen (there are also matte and resinous varieties).

Physical properties of magnetite: hardness - from 5.5 to 6 Mohs, moderate brittleness, imperfect cleavage, conchoidal or uneven step fracture.

The mineral has low electrical conductivity. Density of magnetite - 5.2 g/cm3. It can be melted when heated to a temperature of 1591 ° C, and dissolved in hydrochloric acid. The structure of magnetite crystals is cubic. A distinctive feature of the mineral is its ability to attract and magnetize iron. It occurs in the form of crystals, confluent masses, granular aggregates, druses - usually forms large-scale iron ore deposits.

Deposits and cost

A significant part of magnetite deposits is located on the territory of Russia (Kursk anomaly, the Urals, Siberia, the Kola Peninsula). Magnetite of various origins is also mined in America, Norway, Canada, India, and Great Britain. In addition, the mineral is mined in Sweden, Germany, and Brazil. There is a large magnetite deposit in Kazakhstan, as well as in Ukraine.

Price

It makes sense to talk about the price of magnetite of collectible quality or used for making crafts and jewelry. Samples of crystals can be purchased for 300 – 2000 rubles. Costume jewelry and medicinal jewelry made from this mineral have a budget price - from 50-100 rubles and more.

Application

They are used in industry - steel and electrodes are made from ore magnetite, and used to produce phosphorus and vanadium. In addition, gold is mined from concentrates of this mineral (in the Primorsky Territory, in the Krasnoyarsk Territory - on the coast of the Sisim River and in other regions of Russia). There are scientific developments about combining magnetic iron ore nanoparticles with gold - these technologies are used in modern medicine (in particular, for diagnosing and combating cancer).

Medicinal properties: the mineral is used for diseases of the eyes and nervous system, for bronchitis, convulsions, fractures, radiculitis, Parkinson's disease, etc. Magnetic iron ore also finds practical application in massages - special massage balls are made from it.

The use of magnetite in the jewelry industry is specific and not widespread (due to the insufficient density and hardness of the mineral). Sometimes a stone with an interesting color, obtained due to various impurities, can serve as an insert for silver products, but more often it is used to make bracelets, rosaries or talismans in the form of pendants.

Any jewelry with magnetic iron ore can be used for treatment or recovery from illness, but for this you must have a clear prescription from a doctor.

Self-medication, as well as wearing magnetite jewelry for a long time, is not allowed, since there are a number of serious medical contraindications (they should also be discussed with a doctor).

Energy properties

Since ancient times, the properties of magnetite have been called magical, but even today many believe that the stone has unique energy and supernatural power.

Magnetite - screening from sand

Magnetite sample

Hematite, magnetite, calcite (musketovite).

Feng Shui advises placing this mineral in the south direction of the house to attract fame, recognition and wealth.

  1. Magnetite is the stone of magicians. Amulets and magic wands are made from the mineral and used for protection and rituals.
  2. The stone helps to develop extraordinary abilities, especially in adverse conditions. In addition, it is an indispensable talisman for any creativity.
  3. A stone of magnetite origin is worth having for a person who always loses everything.
  4. Magnetic iron ore is considered a good amulet against witchcraft, the evil eye and dark forces. You can take it with you to crowded places so as not to become a victim of negative influence.
  5. The energy of the stone is most suitable for people born under the signs of Air and Earth. It will bring good luck to Aquarius, Gemini, Virgo and Capricorn.
  6. The stone allows a person to realize his deepest motives, desires and motivations.
  7. In extreme conditions, the stone can be used to obtain protection from ancestors. The mineral will serve as a link between the worlds if you sincerely ask it about it. Choose the ancestor who interests you as a person, attracts you and inspires confidence - with the help of the energy of the stone, he will become your protector and guardian.
  8. It helps everyone who plans to create a new project, open their own business, or implement any innovations.

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), which exists at high temperatures in the form of a solid solution of ulvöspinel Fe2+(Fe2+Ti4+)O4 in magnetite, ulvöspinel and precipitates in 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 is found in a wide variety of genetic types of deposits 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. Magmatic deposits of titanomagnetite in the form of irregularly shaped clusters and veins are often genetically associated with the main rocks (gabbro).

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 magnetite satellite is 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 occur only 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 is extracted from slag, which is of great importance in the manufacture of high-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.

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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. The ores lying below the oxidation zone contain disseminated sulfides (pyrite, occasionally chalcopyrite, galena, etc.).

The same deposits include in the Urals: mountain high(near Nizhny Tagil), Mount Grace(in Kushvinsky district), Korshunovskoe(in Transbaikalia), a group of fields in the Kustanai region of Kazakhstan ( Sokolovskoe, Sarbaiskoe, Kurzhunkul), and also Dashkesan(Azerbaijan), etc.

Largest deposit Krivoy Rog(Ukraine) is among regionally metamorphosed sedimentary deposits. In the thickness of layered ferruginous quartzites, in addition to typical sheet deposits, solid iron ores are also represented by columnar deposits with a lens-shaped cross section, going to a considerable depth.

Deposits similar in genesis include: Kursk magnetic anomaly(southeast of Kursk). Deeply metamorphosed ferruginous quartzites are also known in deposits on the Kola Peninsula ( Olenegorskoe) and in Western Karelia ( Kostomuksha).

Of the foreign ones, we note the largest deposits Kirunavaara And Luossavaara in Sweden, occurring in the form of thick vein-like deposits in metamorphosed strata of volcanic rocks; magnetite is associated here with apatite.

Huge deposits of magnetite-hematite ores in the USA are located in the Lake Superior region among the oldest metamorphosed shales, in Labrador (Newfoundland), etc.