Rock Identifier
Iron Meteorite (Iron-Nickel Alloy (Kamacite and Taenite)) — meteorite
meteorite

Iron Meteorite

Iron-Nickel Alloy (Kamacite and Taenite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4 to 5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Dark grey to metallic silver (when cut and etched), Luster: Metallic to dull, Crystal Structure: Widmanstätten pattern (octahedrites), Specific Gravity: 7.0 to 8.0, strongly magnetic.

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4 to 5 on the Mohs scale, Color: Dark grey to metallic silver (when cut and etched), Luster: Metallic to dull, Crystal Structure: Widmanstätten pattern (octahedrites), Specific Gravity: 7.0 to 8.0, strongly magnetic.

Formation & geological history

Formed in the core of differentiated planetesimals in the early solar system over 4.5 billion years ago, subsequently traveling through space and impacting Earth.

Uses & applications

Prized by collectors, scientific research, and occasionally used in bespoke jewelry.

Geological facts

Iron meteorites represent the core material of shattered asteroids. Famous examples include the Hoba meteorite and the Canyon Diablo fragments from Meteor Crater.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by extreme heaviness for size, irregular fusion crust, magnetic properties, and often dimpled surfaces called regmaglypts.

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