Mineral (Extraterrestrial)

Chondrite Meteorite

Ordinary Chondrite (OC)

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs; Color: Black/brown fusion crust with grayish interior; Luster: Dull to sub-metallic; Structure: Presence of round chondrule grains; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.8

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs
Color: Black/brown fusion crust with grayish interior
Luster: Dull to sub-metallic

Identified June 26, 2026More mineral (extraterrestrial) →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6 Mohs; Color: Black/brown fusion crust with grayish interior; Luster: Dull to sub-metallic; Structure: Presence of round chondrule grains; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.8

Formation & geological history

Formed from dust and small grains in the early solar nebula approximately 4.5 billion years ago. These are undifferentiated rocks from asteroids.

Uses & applications

Scientific research into the origin of the solar system, private collecting, and occasionally used in custom jewelry (slices).

Geological facts

Chondrites represent about 86% of all meteorites that fall to Earth. They are among the oldest materials in our solar system, pre-dating the formation of the planets.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for a thin black fusion crust, magnetic attraction due to nickel-iron grains, and a high density compared to terrestrial rocks. Often found in deserts or Antarctica.

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Mineral (specifically a mineraloid)