meteorite

Iron meteorite (probable)

Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, commonly kamacite–taenite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark metallic gray to black, irregularly rounded and strongly oxidized, with a high apparent density and metallic luster; typical hardness is about 4–5 Mohs. The surface resembles a thumbprinted fusion crust/regmaglypts, though the image alone cannot confirm it.

Identified August 17, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the metallic cores of differentiated asteroids, likely billions of years ago, and melted during atmospheric entry; terrestrial weathering produces the brown-black oxidation. Confirmation requires testing rather than visual identification alone.

Uses & applications

Collected as a meteorite specimen; iron meteorites have scientific and educational value, while iron–nickel alloys historically provided meteoritic metal for tools and ornaments.

Geological facts

Likely indicators include strong attraction to a magnet, unusually high weight for its size, and a streak that is generally absent or gray rather than red-brown. Slag, hematite, magnetite, and industrial iron can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Common finds occur in arid deserts and Antarctica; suspected specimens should be examined for nickel with laboratory methods, polished and etched for Widmanstätten patterns, and tested for iron-nickel composition. Avoid cutting or acid-testing an unverified specimen.