meteorite

Iron Meteorite

Iron Meteorite (Group IAB or IIIAB common)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs scale), Color: Dark brown to black fusion crust with metallic silver interior, Luster: Metallic to dull/rusty, Crystal Structure: Octahedral (Widmanstätten pattern), Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0

Identified July 1, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed from the molten metallic cores of differentiated asteroids approximately 4.5 billion years ago. They are fragments released by catastrophic collisions in space.

Uses & applications

Primarily for scientific research and private collecting. They are also used in high-end jewelry (watch dials) and as raw material for Damascus-style knives.

Geological facts

Iron meteorites are much rarer than stony meteorites but are easier to find because they look distinctly different from terrestrial rocks and are magnetic. The Hoba meteorite in Namibia is the largest known example.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations), a fusion crust, high density for its size, and strong magnetism. A nickel allergy test (dimethylglyoxime) can confirm space origin.