igneous

Iron-Nickel Meteorite

Siderite (Fe, Ni)

Hardness: 4-5. Color: Dark brown to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver-grey when cut. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Isometric (Octahedrite most common). Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0.

Hardness: 4-5
Luster: Metallic

Identified February 24, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4-5. Color: Dark brown to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver-grey when cut. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Isometric (Octahedrite most common). Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the cores of differentiated asteroids or planetesimals during the birth of the Solar System approximately 4.5 billion years ago. They are the remains of planetary cores that were shattered by impacts.

Uses & applications

Scientific research into the origin of the solar system, high-end jewelry (slices), and highly prized by private collectors and museums.

Geological facts

Most iron meteorites display a unique crystalline pattern called Widmanstätten patterns when etched with acid, which cannot be recreated on Earth due to the extremely slow cooling rates in space.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high density (very heavy for its size), strong magnetic attraction, and the presence of a fusion crust or regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations). Commonly found in desert regions or Antarctica where they are easily spotted.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous