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Magnetite (Lodestone)

Photo: Fred Anzley Annet / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Magnetite (Lodestone)

Also known as: Lodestone

The most magnetic natural mineral – naturally magnetised lodestone made the world's first compasses.

  • ColourBlack, Metallic grey
  • Mineral groupOxide (spinel group)
  • ChemistryFe₃O₄
  • Hardness (Mohs)5.5–6.5
  • Crystal systemCubic
  • Where it's foundSweden, Norway, Russia, South Africa, USA
  • ChakraRoot
  • ZodiacVirgo, Aquarius

What is Magnetite (Lodestone)?

Magnetite is an iron oxide and the most magnetic naturally occurring mineral. Some magnetite, called lodestone, is naturally magnetised strongly enough to pick up nails and iron filings – probably after being struck by lightning.

Lodestone was used to make the first compasses in ancient China, and later guided sailors around the world. Magnetite is also an important iron ore.

Magnetite (Lodestone) astrology & birthstone

  • Zodiac signsVirgo, Aquarius
  • Ruling planetSaturn
  • ElementEarth
  • Birthstone month—

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Magnetite (Lodestone) meaning & traditional properties

Lodestone is associated in folk traditions with grounding, stability and attraction – drawing good things towards you.

  • Grounding
  • Attraction
  • Stability

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Magnetite (Lodestone)

  • Keep lodestone on your desk or altar, following folk tradition.
  • Watch it pick up small iron filings – a great conversation piece.

How to care for Magnetite (Lodestone)

Keep dry – it can rust. Keep away from phones, cards and electronics.

Looking for Magnetite (Lodestone)?

Magnetite (Lodestone) isn't in our shop right now – new stock arrives regularly. In the meantime, explore similar crystals we have available or browse our full crystal collection.

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    Hematite

    Metallic iron oxide – the main ore of iron, found even on Mars, and a classic grounding stone.

  • Pyrite
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    Pyrite

    Brassy 'fool's gold' that grows in natural perfect cubes – the crystal lore stone of abundance and confidence.

  • Black Tourmaline
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    Black Tourmaline

    Striated black crystals of schorl – the most popular protection and grounding stone in crystal lore.

  • Shungite
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    Shungite

    Ancient carbon-rich black rock from Karelia, Russia – popular in crystal lore for protection and purification.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Magnetite (Lodestone) with a protection & cleansing ritual

A traditional cleansing ritual for resetting your space and feeling protected.

Traditionally paired with: White sage or palo santo smudge sticks · Dragon's blood, frankincense or myrrh incense · A white or black candle

  • Open a window, then light a white sage or palo santo stick and let it smoulder.
  • Gently waft the smoke around your crystal and through the room, corners first.
  • Light a white candle and place your crystal beside it while you set a simple intention, such as "This space is calm and protected".
  • Finish with frankincense or dragon's blood incense and let it burn down safely.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Magnetite (Lodestone) jewellery & pendulums

Wear the energy of your favourite crystals every day – browse our handmade crystal jewellery and dowsing pendulums.

Magnetite (Lodestone) FAQs

What is lodestone?

Naturally magnetised magnetite.

Were compasses made from lodestone?

Yes – the first compasses, in ancient China, used lodestone.

Related crystals

  • Hematite
    In our shop

    Hematite

    Metallic iron oxide – the main ore of iron, found even on Mars, and a classic grounding stone.

  • Pyrite
    In our shop

    Pyrite

    Brassy 'fool's gold' that grows in natural perfect cubes – the crystal lore stone of abundance and confidence.

  • Black Tourmaline
    In our shop

    Black Tourmaline

    Striated black crystals of schorl – the most popular protection and grounding stone in crystal lore.

  • Shungite
    In our shop

    Shungite

    Ancient carbon-rich black rock from Karelia, Russia – popular in crystal lore for protection and purification.

Sources