meteorite

Iron meteorite (likely Sikhote-Alin–type or similar)

Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, commonly kamacite with taenite; exact classification requires laboratory testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray-brown metallic body with rounded fusion-crust-like surface and apparent regmaglypts; metallic luster, Mohs hardness about 4–5, high density (~7–8 g/cm³), weakly magnetic to strongly magnetic, and no ordinary mineral cleavage.

Identified September 11, 2026More meteorite →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron meteorite (likely Sikhote-Alin–type or similar)
Scientific name: Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, commonly kamacite with taenite; exact classification requires laboratory testing
Category: meteorite
Identified: September 11, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

If authenticated: roughly $1–$10 per gram for common iron meteorite material, potentially $100–$1,000+ for an attractive documented specimen; if industrial slag, usually under $20.

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

Likely formed from the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid and crystallized over geological time before atmospheric entry; the smooth, melted exterior may represent fusion crust and ablation during a fall. Age is typically ~4.5 billion years.

Uses & applications

Primarily collectible and scientifically valuable; cut and etched specimens can display a Widmanstätten pattern. Not generally used industrially because of rarity.

Geological facts

The cavities may be regmaglypts, but corrosion, slag, or industrial iron can look similar. Confirmation requires nickel testing, density, magnetism, and ideally an etched slice or laboratory elemental analysis.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found as dense, unusually heavy magnetic masses with a thin dark crust; test for nickel and avoid relying on appearance alone. Suspected meteorites should be examined by a university or recognized meteorite laboratory.