Neodymium

The metal neodymium was isolated in 1925 and has a silvery-white luster, but it fades rapidly in the air, so it is often preserved in sealed plastic packages or immersed in mineral oil. Neodymium and its rose-red oxide are used to make stained glass for special applications, such as welders’ goggles, and as a substitute for synthetic rubies in some lasers. Its primary use is in the manufacture of strong magnets (alloyed with Neodymium Iron Boron) and in magnets for electric vehicle drive motors.