Rock Identifier
Likely iron meteorite fragment (Iron meteorite, probably kamacite–taenite (Fe–Ni alloy)) — meteorite
meteorite

Likely iron meteorite fragment

Iron meteorite, probably kamacite–taenite (Fe–Ni alloy)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown, weathered metallic surface with a pale metal-colored rim; likely opaque, metallic to earthy luster, Mohs hardness about 4–5, and high density. The rounded, flattened shape may reflect atmospheric ablation or later weathering, though an ordinary iron-rich terrestrial concretion is also possible.

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Physical properties

Dark brown, weathered metallic surface with a pale metal-colored rim; likely opaque, metallic to earthy luster, Mohs hardness about 4–5, and high density. The rounded, flattened shape may reflect atmospheric ablation or later weathering, though an ordinary iron-rich terrestrial concretion is also possible.

Formation & geological history

If meteoritic, it formed in the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid billions of years ago and later fell to Earth, where iron oxidized into a brown fusion crust or rust coating. The image alone cannot confirm extraterrestrial origin.

Uses & applications

Meteorites are collected and studied; iron meteorites are sometimes cut, polished, and etched to reveal Widmanstätten patterns. Iron-rich terrestrial specimens have little commercial use.

Geological facts

A real iron meteorite commonly attracts a strong magnet and feels unusually heavy for its size; a clean cut surface may show metallic iron-nickel. Rust alone is not diagnostic, and slag or industrial metal can look similar.

Field identification & locations

Check for strong magnetism, unusually high density, rounded regmaglypts, and nickel using professional testing; avoid filing or acid testing valuable material. Confirmation requires a laboratory composition analysis, especially nickel and cobalt measurements.

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