Magnetic separation techniques are used extensively in mineral processing operations. Magnetic separators are robust and relatively easy to operate. However, setting up a magnetic separator such that it operates in an optimal manner is difficult involving trial and error techniques and laborious assaying methods. Magnetic tracers are a "tool" that enable magnetic separators to be set up efficiently and rapidly. Magnetic tracers are, easily identified, simulant minerals with similar size and density to that of the minerals in the are body they are simulating.