Neodymium magnets are this metal's most visible product to date and account for the largest share of its demand. Neodymium by itself doesn't become a magnet unless cooled to well below freezing. An alloy bearing about 12% Nd with most of the remainder iron however brings its curiously strong magnetic properties to room temperature.

Unalloyed, the pure metal is a neutral gray color and its luster becomes a dull battleship gray in air as oxidation inevitably occurs. Keeping it looking fresh requires an oxygen-free atmosphere or a vacuum. The preferred method of storage is in mineral oil where it still turns dark due to oxygen that still manages to get through but the integrity of the bulk of the metal is at least preserved.

Note additional options for this element on the Ampules section

CAS 7440-00-8