meteorite

Iron-rich meteorite candidate

Undetermined Fe–Ni meteorite, possibly an ordinary chondrite or iron meteorite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray-brown, strongly weathered surface with rusty iron-oxide staining, metallic patches, and irregular rounded shape; likely high density and weak/no visible cleavage. A nickel-bearing iron meteorite typically has Mohs hardness about 4–5 and metallic luster, but confirmation requires testing.

Identified August 10, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Potentially extraterrestrial material formed in an asteroid’s differentiated or primitive body billions of years ago, then altered by atmospheric entry and terrestrial weathering. The image alone cannot establish age or authenticity.

Uses & applications

Meteorites are valued for scientific study and collecting; confirmed specimens may be cut, polished, or etched to display metal textures. Unverified iron-rich terrestrial rocks have little commercial use beyond casual collecting.

Geological facts

Possible indicators include unusual density, a thin fusion crust, regmaglypts (thumbprint-like depressions), and attraction to a strong magnet. Rust alone is not diagnostic because terrestrial ironstone, slag, and basalt can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Common candidate locations include deserts, Antarctica, and freshly exposed ground; use a magnet, streak test, density measurement, and professional Ni/Co or elemental analysis. Avoid destructive testing before identification.