meteorite

Iron meteorite (probable, possibly industrial iron slag)

Fe–Ni metallic alloy, commonly kamacite and taenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray to black, metallic luster, irregular vesicular surface, and apparent fusion crust; hardness about 4–5.5 Mohs, very dense, and typically strongly magnetic. The holes and unusually glassy appearance also fit slag, so identification from the image alone is uncertain.

Identified September 8, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Iron meteorites formed by melting and differentiation within an asteroid’s metallic core, generally over 4.5 billion years ago, then survived atmospheric entry. Industrial slag can mimic them but is produced during modern metal smelting.

Uses & applications

Confirmed meteorites are collector specimens and research materials; iron meteorites may be cut, etched, and displayed. Slag has mainly industrial aggregate or recycling value.

Geological facts

A polished-and-etched iron meteorite commonly reveals a Widmanstätten pattern of interlocking kamacite and taenite bands. Vesicles are more typical of slag than genuine meteorites, although weathering and impact textures can complicate appearance.

Field identification & locations

Test with a strong magnet, streak on unglazed ceramic, density, and—ideally—nickel analysis; a meteorite should be heavy, magnetic, and generally lack abundant rounded bubbles. Common iron meteorites include Canyon Diablo and Sikhote-Alin.