meteorite
Iron Meteorite
Siderite (Iron-Nickel alloy)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 4-5 Mohs; Color: Dark brown/rust (weathered), silvery-grey (internal fresh surface); Luster: Metallic; Structure: Octahedrite/Hexahedrite; Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0
- Hardness
- 4-5 Mohs
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 Mohs; Color: Dark brown/rust (weathered), silvery-grey (internal fresh surface); Luster: Metallic; Structure: Octahedrite/Hexahedrite; Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in the molten cores of planetary embryos or asteroids billions of years ago. Found in impact sites. While the user's location (Visakhapatnam, India) is mainly metamorphic terrain (Eastern Ghats), meteorites can land anywhere globally.
Uses & applications
Scientific research, high-end collector specimens, and occasionally used in custom jewelry (Widmanstätten patterns).
Geological facts
Iron meteorites consist mostly of iron and nickel. They represent the core materials of early protoplanets that were shattered by massive impacts in the early solar system.
Field identification & locations
Identify by high density, magnetic properties, and presence of a fusion crust. Field testers use the 'window test' (grinding a corner) to look for a metallic interior and nickel testing.
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