meteorite

Chondrite Meteorite

Ordinary Chondrite (L or H group)

Hardness: 4-5 Moon scale; Color: Dark brown to black fusion crust with reddish-orange oxidation; Luster: Dull to metallic; Structure: Granular with visible chondrules; High density; Magnetism: Weak to strong

Hardness: 4-5 Moon scale
Luster: Dull to metallic

Identified July 20, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed during the early solar system approximately 4.5 billion years ago. These are fragments of asteroids from the main belt that survived atmospheric entry through Earth's atmosphere.

Uses & applications

Extremely valuable for scientific research into the origin of the solar system; highly collectible for enthusiasts and used in unique jewelry.

Geological facts

Chondrites are the oldest known rocks in the solar system. They contain chondrules, which are small round grains that formed as molten droplets in space before being accreted into asteroids.

Field identification & locations

Identify by checking for a dark 'fusion crust,' magnetic attraction, and high density compared to terrestrial rocks. Nickel-iron grains can often be seen on a ground surface. Found globally but most easily recovered in deserts or Antarctica.

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Siderite (Fe, Ni)

igneous

Shatter Cone

Impactite (Shatter Cone texture)

metamorphic

Iron Meteorite

Siderite (comprised primarily of Kamacite and Taenite alloys)

igneous

Pallasite Meteorite

Pallasite (Stony-iron meteorite; Fe-Ni alloy with (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 olivine)

Mineral/Extraterrestrial Rock

Slag (Anthropogenic Glass/Iron byproduct)

Ferro-silicate Slag

Anthropogenic (Man-made)

Chondrite Meteorite

Stony Meteorite (Chondrite)

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