meteorite
Iron Meteorite
Ferrite-kamacite-taenite meteorite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 4-5 on Mohs scale, metallic gray to dark brown color, metallic luster, cubic or octahedral crystal structure when etched, high specific gravity around 7.5-8.0.
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Physical properties
Hardness 4-5 on Mohs scale, metallic gray to dark brown color, metallic luster, cubic or octahedral crystal structure when etched, high specific gravity around 7.5-8.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed in the cores of differentiated asteroids during the early formation of the solar system approximately 4.5 billion years ago.
Uses & applications
Valued by scientific researchers for understanding planetary formation and highly sought after by meteorite collectors for display and jewelry.
Geological facts
Iron meteorites represent only about 5% of all meteorite falls but are easily recovered because they resist weathering and attract magnets.
Field identification & locations
Identify by heavy weight, magnetic attraction, fusion crust, and sometimes regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations) on the surface; found globally.
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