If you are a magnet enthusiast or geology buff, you may have heard of a magnetic stone known as lodestone. The properties and origins of this magnetic material make it quite an interesting study. Lodestone has been linked as far back as 600 BC and is often cited in history as the first indication of magnetism, leading to further magnetic discoveries like the early compass in China.

History of Lodestone

Lodestone is a naturally occurring type of mineral magnetite, which is composed of iron oxide. This type of magnetite separates itself from others because it has a north and south polarity configuration. So, instead of being attracted by a magnet, it acts as one. Since they are found near the Earth’s surface, one prominent theory about how they were created points to lightning strikes.

Lodestone Today

Although lodestone is one of only two natural magnets, modern day magnets are much stronger. It is because of this fact that you won’t see it being used in today’s magnetic gadgets and other accessories. Today, there are about four primary materials of which permanent magnets are made and those are:
  • Neodymium-boron-iron (Neodymium, NdFeB)
  • Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo)
  • Aluminum-Nickel-Cobalt (Alnico)
  • Ceramic/Ferrite
Neodymium magnets and samarium-cobalt are the strongest and most common of the types. Although lodestone may not be the most advanced or strongest magnet in the world, it is the first discovered and naturally occurring, making it a subject of scientific and historic interest. If you are really interested in lodestone and would like to experiment with it yourself, check out our pack of lodestone that also includes iron filings! If you have questions about lodestone or other magnet products, feel free to contact us. Photo by Pieter Kuiper