meteorite

Iron-Nickel Meteorite

Siderite (Iron Meteorite)

Hardness: 4.5-5.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Dark brown to black exterior (fusion crust), silvery-metallic interior; Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Octahedral (often showing Widmanstätten patterns); Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0.

Hardness: 4
Luster: Metallic

Identified July 9, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the molten cores of differentiated asteroids approximately 4.5 billion years ago. These bodies were later shattered by collisions, releasing the iron-rich core material into space until they fell to Earth.

Uses & applications

Primary use is for scientific research, private collecting, and high-end jewelry (slices are often acid-etched to show patterns).

Geological facts

Iron meteorites are composed mainly of kamacite and taenite. They make up only about 5% of witnessed falls but are disproportionately common in collections because they survive atmospheric entry and weathering better than stony meteorites.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high density, magnetic properties, and the presence of a fusion crust or regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations). Common locations include arid deserts and Antarctica.