meteorite

Iron meteorite fragment (likely meteorite slice)

Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, possibly an octahedrite; exact classification requires laboratory analysis

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Metallic gray-brown to rusty surface with fusion-crust-like dark areas and weathered iron oxides; fresh metal would have Mohs hardness about 4–5.5, high density (~7–8 g/cm³), opaque metallic luster, and no ordinary rock cleavage; the apparent cut faces may show a Widmanstätten pattern, but it is not clearly resolved.

Identified August 13, 2026More meteorite →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron meteorite fragment (likely meteorite slice)
Scientific name: Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, possibly an octahedrite; exact classification requires laboratory analysis
Category: meteorite
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $20–$150 for an unverified small fragment; $100–$1,000+ if authenticated, classified, and exhibiting a clear structure.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the metallic core of an asteroid by melting and slow cooling, likely billions of years ago (~4.56 billion years); landed on Earth and subsequently weathered, producing reddish-brown oxides.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen; polished iron meteorites are used for jewelry, displays, and scientific study, not routine construction.

Geological facts

Common iron meteorites contain roughly 90–95% iron and 5–10% nickel; nickel testing and etching a polished face can reveal the diagnostic Widmanstätten pattern.

Field identification & locations

Check unusually high density, attraction to a strong magnet, metallic interior, and nickel response; terrestrial iron slag, hematite, and industrial metal can look similar. Common finds occur in deserts and Antarctica.