meteorite
Iron-Nickel Meteorite Fragment (Unclassified)
Iron-Nickel Alloy (Taenite and Kamacite)
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.
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Physical properties
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.
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.
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