meteorite

Iron meteorite (probable)

Fe–Ni metallic meteorite, commonly octahedrite (kamacite–taenite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark metallic gray to black, irregularly sculpted surface with possible fusion crust and regmaglypts; metallic luster, high density, hardness about 4–5 Mohs, and weak-to-strong magnetism. Internal structure cannot be confirmed without polishing/etching for a Widmanstätten pattern.

Identified September 4, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid and crystallized over geological time; the exterior melted during atmospheric entry, producing fusion crust. Exact meteorite age is typically about 4.5 billion years, but terrestrial origin or industrial slag should be excluded by testing.

Uses & applications

Primarily a scientific and collectible specimen; cut slices are polished and etched for display and jewelry. Iron meteorites have little industrial use compared with terrestrial iron ores.

Geological facts

Reliable identification requires density, magnetism, nickel testing, and ideally laboratory elemental analysis; slag can look similar but often has bubbly vesicles and uneven glassy textures.

Field identification & locations

Common finds occur in deserts, Antarctica, and cultivated fields; suspected specimens should not be aggressively cleaned or filed. Estimated value: $1–$20 per gram for common confirmed iron meteorites, with exceptional oriented or historically important pieces much higher.