meteorite
Iron Meteorite
Meteorite (primarily Fe-Ni alloy with kamacite and taenite)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 4-5 on Mohs scale, metallic gray to rusty brown color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system for nickel-iron minerals, high specific gravity (7.8-8.0).
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Physical properties
Hardness 4-5 on Mohs scale, metallic gray to rusty brown color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system for nickel-iron minerals, high specific gravity (7.8-8.0).
Formation & geological history
Formed in the early solar system over 4.5 billion years ago, originating from the molten cores of differentiated asteroids.
Uses & applications
Prized by collectors, scientific research, and occasionally used in custom jewelry or knife-making.
Geological facts
Iron meteorites represent the core material of ancient planetesimals that were shattered by impacts in the asteroid belt.
Field identification & locations
Identify by magnetic attraction, high density, fusion crust, and characteristic regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations) on the surface; found globally.
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