Lodestone

Lodestones were often mounted in frames of brass, bronze or silver, and sometimes had an iron or steel keeper (a bar to help preserve their magnetic power). This lodestone has a brass frame with a carrying loop on top, and is 'armed' with two pieces of steel at the bottom, which help to increase the magnetic strength of the lodestone.

Object Details

ID: NAV0713
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Lodestone
Display location: Display - ROG
Creator: Unknown
Date made: circa 1600
Exhibition: Time and Longitude
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Caird Collection
Measurements: Overall: 80 mm x 47 mm x 37 mm