Magnetite Pigment

Magnetite is a handmade natural black pigment ground from magnetite (Fe₃O₄), the black iron oxide mineral also known as lodestone. It produces a dense, neutral to slightly warm black with a subtle metallic sheen and a very heavy, granular texture. True to its name, the pigment is attracted to a magnet and can be found in many beach sands as a black mineral sand.

In use, Magnetite gives a strong, opaque black for drawing, shadows, dark grounds and stone or metal effects. Because it is heavy and granular, it settles and granulates beautifully in watercolor. It mixes with white for cool to neutral greys and with earths for deep, natural darks. It is extremely lightfast and compatible with every binder, including lime and fresco.

History

Magnetite is the most magnetic natural mineral on earth, and lodestone was used for the first compasses in China and later in Europe. Iron oxide blacks including magnetite have been identified in prehistoric and ancient painting alongside carbon and manganese blacks, and black iron oxide remained in use through Roman and later painting. Its synthetic counterpart, mars black, is one of the most widely used blacks today.

Pigment Information

Pigment Type: Natural (Iron Oxide) mineral (Magnetite, Fe₃O₄)
Source: Natural magnetite (lodestone), crushed and ground
Origin: U.S.A.
Suitable Mediums: Watercolor, Oil, Tempera, Acrylic, Encaustic, Cold Wax, Casein, Lime / Fresco
Lightfastness: Excellent
Opacity: Opaque
Other Names: Lodestone, Black Iron Oxide, Natural Mars Black, Magnetic Iron Ore
Color Index Code: PBk11

Health and Safety

For art use only. Not for cosmetic, food or children's use.
Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.
Avoid creating or breathing dust. Work in a ventilated area and wear a NIOSH approved dust respirator (P100 or better) when handling dry pigment.
Wear gloves and eye protection. Wash hands and work surfaces after use, and never rinse pigment into drains.
Do not spray apply, sand or burn.
If swallowed or if you feel unwell, contact a poison control center (U.S. 1-800-222-1222) or a doctor.
Safety Data Sheet available on request.

Caution: Natural earths and minerals contain crystalline silica (quartz). Breathing the dust over long periods can cause serious lung disease (silicosis) and lung cancer. Always use a dust respirator with the dry pigment.