The lanthanides are a fertile row on the periodic table for their unusual (and desirable) magnetic properties with at least half of them finding some use or other in this area. None, however, are as linked with the word “magnet” the way neodymium is. Alloyed with iron and a little boron, this mixture provides for the strongest permanent magnets available. And these neodymium magnets have by now largely replaced the older iron-nickel-cobalt general purpose magnets. Today you find them literally everywhere. They’re integral to the monster power windmills, EVs and cell phones.

The pure metal is much too delicate to last long in open air as oxygen attacks it and turns even a big chunk like this into powder in a matter of weeks. Bathed in pure argon gas however this big specimen weighing over an ounce will remain a gleaming white beauty as long as the dome’s seal is not compromised.