meteorite
Iron Meteorite
Iron Meteorite (Group IAB or IIIAB common)
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
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Physical properties
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
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.
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