meteorite

Iron meteorite fragment

Fe-Ni meteorite, likely an iron meteorite or stony-iron fragment

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Metallic gray-black matrix with rusty brown oxidation; likely dense, magnetic, and much harder than ordinary rust. Polished iron meteorites commonly show a nickel-iron alloy and, when etched, Widmanstätten patterns; exact properties cannot be confirmed from the image.

Identified August 8, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid and crystallized over geological time, then survived atmospheric entry and weathering on Earth. The brown surface is terrestrial oxidation (limonite/goethite).

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen, educational object, or jewelry material; iron meteorites are sometimes cut, polished, and etched for display.

Geological facts

The irregular dark fusion-crust-like exterior and heavy rusty metal appearance are consistent with a meteorite, but slag, weathered iron ore, or industrial metal are plausible alternatives without testing.

Field identification & locations

Check for strong attraction to a magnet, unusually high density, a thin fusion crust, and absence of bubbles; a nickel test and laboratory analysis are more reliable. Common finds occur in deserts, Antarctica, and cultivated fields.