The Specimen Library / History, Lore & Tradition
Magnetite / Lodestone · Human Story
Iron oxide / natural magnetism
A closer look beyond the specimen label.
← Return to Magnetite / LodestoneC&C image archive · photograph forthcoming
No substitute photograph has been used
No substitute photograph has been used
The human story, examined
Documented history, historical belief and contemporary crystal practice are different parts of the story. Each is identified here on its own terms.
The human story
“Lodestone” is used for naturally magnetized material. A magnetite label and a claim of permanent natural magnetization are different claims.
Reading a name carefully
Does the piece attract a test object by itself, or only respond to an external magnet? Document the observation.
Sources & further reading
References are labeled by role. A source documenting a belief is not evidence of a medical or mineralogical effect. Reflection prompts are C&C editorial suggestions.
Adjacent drawers
Related Specimens
The cabinet