Did you know that nature has the ability to produce natural magnets? One of the minerals that has magnetic properties and attracts iron and fragments of ordinary inert magnetite is called lodestone. It's a rare form of magnetite which was first discovered in ancient China.
Besides steel and iron, in the metaphysical realm, lodestone is believed to attract people, things, situations, opportunities, and the deepest desires of a well-intentioned heart.
The Physical Properties of Lodestone
Lodestone is one of the very few minerals that are naturally magnetized. The average magnetite specimen is attracted to a magnet. But lodestone is auto-magnetized hence can attract small pieces of iron, magnetite, and other magnetic materials.
While lodestone may not be the strongest magnet in the world, the mineral still retains its significance in history being the world's first magnet.
The mineral has a hardness of rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. As a magnetite, lodestone also has a black to brownish black colour and a metallic lustre. One can easily spot lodestone through its coverings of tiny magnetite (and other metallic) particles.
Magnetite occurs as isometric crystals (having 3 equally sized faces) in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Magnetite consists of 70% iron which makes it a primary iron ore.
The History of Lodestone
The name lodestone is derived from Middle English which means leading stone or course stone. If the earliest records in history were to be a basis for its discovery, lodestone was first heard of in the 6th century BC.
The Greek philosopher Thales of Miletus made the first reference to the mineral which earned him the credit for discovering lodestone and its magnetic abilities. Some people believe the name magnet may have come from the lodestone specimens found in the ancient Greek city Magnesia in Anatolia.
Due to its magnetic properties, many ancient cultures sold lodestone at a high price. In the 11th century AD, the Chinese used pieces of lodestone suspended on a string as a magnetic compass.
The Lore of Lodestone
Health folklore claims that lodestone carries healing energies that relieve severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women. The mineral soothes strong emotions and stabilizes moods which many women experience during menstruation.
It's also believed to treat liver asthma and liver problems. With its anti-inflammatory properties, lodestone calms the muscles and even speeds up recovery from an injury. Some people believe lodestone aids in treating anemia, improving blood circulation, and treating other blood-related health issues.
The Metaphysical Properties of Lodestone
Lodestone is a powerful stone of attraction which is especially useful in setting intentions. It's brimming with energies that will help realize every sincerest desire in your heart. Some people use it to bring different dreams and goals into fruition: attracting wealth, luck, romance, or prosperity in business.
To attract wealth and abundance:
- Feed your lodestone with bits of iron or steel shavings.
- Put the mineral in your pocket or pouch and carry it with you wherever you go.
Even if your desires are directed to the self, lodestone's grounding energy will help you attract the outcomes you want. If you're looking for answers to unresolved issues in your life, lodestone will increase your intuition so you can get to the solutions you need. It will lead you to the truth, even if it's uncomfortable, that will set you free.
Sources:
King, H. (n.d.). Magnetite and Lodestone. Geology.com. Accessed at https://geology.com/minerals/magnetite.shtml
Mills, A. (2010, May 21). The Lodestone: History, Physics, and Formation. Taylor & Francis Online. Accessed at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00033790310001642812
Houston, D. (n.d.). Lodestone: Meanings, Properties and Powers. Crystals&Jewelry.com. Accessed at https://meanings.crystalsandjewelry.com/lodestone/
