meteorite

Iron-Nickel Meteorite Fragment (Unclassified)

Iron-Nickel Alloy (Taenite and Kamacite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs), Color: Rusty brown surface (fusion crust/oxidation) with metallic grey interior, Luster: Metallic to dull/rusty, Structure: Octahedrite or Hexahedrite, High density/specific gravity (~7.8), Strongly magnetic.

Identified July 18, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Remnants of a protoplanetary core from the early solar nebula, approximately 4.5 billion years old. These specimens formed through the cooling of molten metal in space.

Uses & applications

Scientific research, hobbyist collecting, and high-end jewelry (often sliced to show Widmanstätten patterns).

Geological facts

Iron meteorites are much rarer than stony meteorites but easier to find with metal detectors. They represent the core of late asteroids that were shattered by impacts.

Field identification & locations

Identified by high weight-to-size ratio (density), strong magnetism, and a possible fusion crust. Field testers often look for regmaglypts (thumbprint-like depressions) or use nickel-testing kits.