The Specimen Library / Under the Loupe
Magnetite / Lodestone · Science
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 material, examined
What the name tells you
Responding to a magnet is different from being a magnet. Test those questions separately, without turning either observation into proof of origin.
A useful question at the counter
Does the piece attract a test object by itself, or only respond to an external magnet? Document the observation.
A note for your collection
Keep specimens dry and protected from knocks. Keep strong magnetic pieces away from magnet-sensitive objects and follow device manufacturers’ guidance.
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