meteorite
Iron Meteorite
Iron-Nickel Alloy (Kamacite and Taenite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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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