meteorite

Iron meteorite (likely etched or weathered iron meteorite)

Fe–Ni alloy, predominantly kamacite and taenite; possible ataxite/hexahedrite or coarse octahedrite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown-black metallic surface with rounded, regmaglypt-like depressions and rusty oxidation; metallic luster, opaque, very dense, magnetic, Mohs hardness about 4–5. The apparent pits and iron-nickel metal are consistent with a meteorite, though image identification is not definitive.

Identified September 11, 2026More meteorite →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron meteorite (likely etched or weathered iron meteorite)
Scientific name: Fe–Ni alloy, predominantly kamacite and taenite; possible ataxite/hexahedrite or coarse octahedrite
Category: meteorite
Identified: September 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $20–$200 for a common small iron meteorite; $200–$2,000+ for authenticated, attractive, provenance-backed material.

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 a differentiated asteroid and crystallized billions of years ago, commonly 4.5–4.6 billion years old; later delivered to Earth by impact. Terrestrial iron slag or industrial metal is an important alternative.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen, with occasional use in jewelry, sculpture, and scientific study; not generally used industrially.

Geological facts

Iron meteorites often reveal Widmanstätten patterns when professionally cut, polished, and etched with acid. A true specimen should strongly attract a magnet and typically leaves little or no streak on unglazed ceramic.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Campo del Cielo (Argentina), Sikhote-Alin (Russia), and Canyon Diablo (Arizona). Confirm with density, nickel testing, petrographic examination, and an accredited meteoritics laboratory; slag commonly has glassy bubbles and irregular flow textures.