Magnetite is a mineral that is naturally magnetic, meaning that it can be attracted to a magnet. It is one of the most common iron minerals, and is also the most magnetic of all the naturally-occurring minerals on Earth. This magnetic property is what gives magnetite its name, which comes from the Greek word "magnetis," meaning "magnet." It can really stick to the magnets on your pick.

Magnetite is a black, opaque mineral that has a metallic luster. It is often found in the form of octahedra, which are eight-sided crystals. It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, which means that it is relatively hard and can be scratched by a knife.

One of the most interesting properties of magnetite is its ability to be magnetized. When magnetite is placed in a magnetic field, it will become magnetized and will attract other magnetic materials, such as iron or steel. This property is known as ferromagnetism, and it is the basis for the use of magnetite in many modern technologies.

In addition to its magnetic properties, magnetite also has a number of other interesting characteristics. For example, it is an important ore of iron, which is used to make steel and other alloys. It is also a good conductor of heat and electricity, which makes it useful in a variety of industrial applications. Be sure to read Understanding Rocks for more information.