A rare mineral, found to have strong permanent magnetization For many centuries, lodestones provided humanity with its only known source of magnetism The mineral is a rare form of fine-grained magnetite and is believed to acquire its magnetic properties when struck by lightning
(From the old English, "lad" [leader or guide], thus the guiding stone for mariners ) It is a magnetized piece of iron ore that can impart its north-south properties to an iron needle This needle was then used to make a compass
Lodestone is found in most parts of the world and is usually in the form of magnetite (Fe3O4) Large deposits were found in Asia Minor, near an ancient town named Magnesia These rocks became known as magnesia rocks and later as magnets
A magnetic stone used as a crude compass Slivers of lodestone, suspended from a cord, or floated atop a small piece of wood in a water jar, seek magnetic north The lodestone is most commonly used by less technically seaman Also see: Compass