Rock Identifier
Iron-rich meteorite (probable stony-iron or weathered iron meteorite) (Unclassified meteorite; likely Fe–Ni metal with silicate minerals) — meteorite
meteorite

Iron-rich meteorite (probable stony-iron or weathered iron meteorite)

Unclassified meteorite; likely Fe–Ni metal with silicate minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown, heavily weathered, metallic to submetallic luster with scattered reflective grains; apparent hardness about 5–6 for silicates, with irregular fracture and possible magnetic response. The image alone cannot confirm a fusion crust, Widmanstätten pattern, or meteorite composition.

Identified More meteorite
Explore Iron-rich meteorite (probable stony-iron or weathered iron meteorite) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Physical properties

Dark brown, heavily weathered, metallic to submetallic luster with scattered reflective grains; apparent hardness about 5–6 for silicates, with irregular fracture and possible magnetic response. The image alone cannot confirm a fusion crust, Widmanstätten pattern, or meteorite composition.

Formation & geological history

Potentially extraterrestrial material formed in an asteroid’s differentiated interior roughly 4.5 billion years ago, then altered by terrestrial oxidation after landing. It could also be an Earth rock such as iron-rich basalt, slag, or sulfide-bearing ore, so laboratory testing is essential.

Uses & applications

Authenticated meteorites are collected and studied; iron meteorites may be cut and etched for display or jewelry. Non-meteorite iron-rich rocks generally have limited ornamental or educational value.

Geological facts

A strong magnet, unusually high density, nickel detection, and polished-section analysis help distinguish meteorites from terrestrial rocks. Rust alone is not diagnostic, and slag commonly mimics meteorites.

Field identification & locations

Common meteorite localities include deserts, Antarctica, and dry plains; suspected specimens should be weighed, magnet-tested, and examined for vesicles, but avoid cutting before professional evaluation. Identification requires petrography and elemental analysis.