The iron ore magnetite which attracts small pieces of iron, cobalt, nickel etc. is a natural magnet. The natural magnets have irregular shape and they are weak. A piece of iron or steel acquires magnetic properties when it is rubbed with a magnet. Such magnets made out of iron or steel are artificial magnets.
Artificial magnets can have desired shape and desired strength. If the artificial magnet is in the form of a rectangular or cylindrical bar, it is called a bar magnet.
