meteorite
Iron Meteorite (Oxidized)
Iron-Nickel Alloy (Fe, Ni)
Hardness: 4-5 (oxidized crust), Color: Rusty brown to dark black, Luster: Metallic (if cut) or dull/earthy (weathered), Structure: Octahedrite/Hexahedrite, High density, Magnetic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 (oxidized crust), Color: Rusty brown to dark black, Luster: Metallic (if cut) or dull/earthy (weathered), Structure: Octahedrite/Hexahedrite, High density, Magnetic
Formation & geological history
Formed in the cores of differentiated asteroids roughly 4.6 billion years ago; fallen to Earth as meteorites and subsequently weathered on the surface.
Uses & applications
Scientific research, high-end collector specimens, and occasionally used in jewelry (Widmanstätten pattern slices).
Geological facts
The rusty exterior indicates it has been on Earth for a long time, developing a 'terrestrial weathering' crust. Many specimens called 'meteorwrongs' are actually industrial iron slag or magnetite.
Field identification & locations
Check for a fusion crust, regmaglypts (thumbprint indentations), high weight for its size, and strong magnetism. A nickel test or acid etching to show Widmanstätten patterns is conclusive.
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