Magnetite

The mineral magnetite (black crystals) is one of the main iron ores and is so named because it is the most magnetic naturally occurring mineral. Magnetite crystals are also found in many living things, including birds, which use the minerals magnetic properties to navigate using the Earth's magnetic fields. Specimens are popular with collectors.

Magnetite embedded in chalcopyrite mineral specimen from Alabama
Courtesy of Rob Lavinsky, Creative Commons
Magnetite embedded in chalcopyrite mineral specimen from Alabama