Superstition in connection with lodestone?

Jeff Pringle · 9th May 2006, 03:51 PM

Lodestone = magnetite, (Fe3O4) - in terms of smelting, the most iron per pound of ore, so in that sense probably very desireable to the ancient smelters, but Hematite (Fe2O3), is not far behind, and they are often found together.
I'm sure they just used what they could get, but liked the richest ore the best.

I also think there's some info on ores in 'Persian Steel', but I can't find my copy

9th May 2006, 03:51 PM	#1
Jeff Pringle Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 189	Lodestone = magnetite, (Fe3O4) - in terms of smelting, the most iron per pound of ore, so in that sense probably very desireable to the ancient smelters, but Hematite (Fe2O3), is not far behind, and they are often found together. I'm sure they just used what they could get, but liked the richest ore the best. I also think there's some info on ores in 'Persian Steel', but I can't find my copy