igneous
Iron-Nickel Meteorite
Siderite (Meteoric Iron-Nickel alloy)
Hardness: 4-5 Mohs. Color: Silver-grey to brownish-black. Luster: Metallic. Structure: Octahedrite or Hexahedrite. Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0. Naturally magnetic.
- Hardness
- 4-5 Mohs
- Color
- Silver-grey to brownish-black
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 Mohs. Color: Silver-grey to brownish-black. Luster: Metallic. Structure: Octahedrite or Hexahedrite. Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0. Naturally magnetic.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the molten cores of planetary embryos or asteroids in the early solar system (~4.5 billion years ago). Crystallized slowly over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used for scientific research, high-end jewelry (meteorite rings/watches), and as a prestigious collector's item.
Geological facts
Many iron meteorites show 'Widmanstätten patterns' when etched with acid, which are long nickel-iron crystals that can only form in space due to extremely slow cooling.
Field identification & locations
Identify by high density (heavy for its size), strong magnetism, and a 'regmaglypts' surface (thumbprint-like indentations). Found in arid deserts or Antarctic ice fields most frequently.
