Magnets were first discovered naturally occurring in magnetite by ancient Greeks. A shepherd named Magnes found his shoe nails stuck to a rock containing magnetite. Magnets come in different shapes, sizes and strengths and are typically made of iron, nickel and steel. They are used to pick up or pull other ferromagnetic materials and have various uses around the home and workplace such as holding sewing pins, powering electric can openers, and attaching items to refrigerators.