igneous
Chondrite Meteorite
Ordinary Chondrite (OC)
Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black fusion crust with lighter interior; Luster: Dull or sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Amorphous and crystalline components (Chondrules); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.8.
- Hardness
- 4-5 (Mohs)
- Color
- Dark brown to black fusion crust with lighter interior
- Luster
- Dull or sub-metallic
Identified More igneous →
Explore Chondrite Meteorite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black fusion crust with lighter interior; Luster: Dull or sub-metallic; Crystal Structure: Amorphous and crystalline components (Chondrules); Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 3.0-3.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the accretion of dust and granules in the early solar system approximately 4.5 billion years ago. These are undifferentiated igneous materials from the asteroid belt.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for scientific research to understand solar system history, private collection, and occasionally used in specialty jewelry.
Geological facts
Chondrites contain 'chondrules', which are small round grains that were once molten droplets in space. They are among the oldest materials known to exist in our solar system.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by checking for high density (heavier than Earth rock), magnetic properties due to nickel-iron content, and a visible dark fusion crust. Found worldwide, but most easily discovered in arid deserts or Antarctica.
