igneous
Iron Meteorite (Fragment)
Siderite (Iron-Nickel alloy: Kamacite and Taenite)
Hardness: 4-5 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver (unweathered). Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (Octahedrite most common). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 7.0 - 8.0.
- Hardness
- 4-5 on Mohs scale
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 on Mohs scale. Color: Dark gray to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver (unweathered). Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (Octahedrite most common). Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: 7.0 - 8.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago in the molten cores of differentiated asteroids. These were released during catastrophic collisions and traveled through space before entering Earth's atmosphere.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for scientific research, specialized jewelry (meteorite watches/rings), and as high-value collector specimens.
Geological facts
Iron meteorites are much rarer than stony meteorites but easier to find because they are magnetic and dense. When etched with acid, most iron meteorites reveal 'Widmanstätten patterns'—crystalline structures that cannot be replicated on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by high density (heavy for its size), strong magnetic properties, and presence of a fusion crust or regmaglypts (thumbprint-like depressions). Found globally in arid regions like deserts or Antarctica where they are better preserved.
