igneous
Iron-Nickel Meteorite
Siderite (Iron Meteorite), primarily Fe-Ni alloy
Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver (interior); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Widmanstätten pattern inside); Specific Gravity: 7-8
- Hardness
- 4-5 (Mohs)
- Luster
- Metallic
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 4-5 (Mohs); Color: Dark brown to black (fusion crust) or metallic silver (interior); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (Widmanstätten pattern inside); Specific Gravity: 7-8
Formation & geological history
Remnants of the molten cores of planetesimals that shattered early in the solar system's history, typically over 4.5 billion years old.
Uses & applications
Scientific research, high-end collector market, and occasionally used in custom jewelry or watch faces.
Geological facts
Iron meteorites are much rarer than stony meteorites but easier to find because they are magnetic and stand out from terrestrial rocks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by high density, strong magnetism, and a regmaglypted (thumb-printed) surface. Found globally, often in arid deserts or Antarctica where they are better preserved.
