igneous

Iron-Nickel Meteorite (Possible Chondrite or Oxidized Iron)

Siderite (Nickel-Iron) or Chondrite (Si/Fe composite)

Hardness: 4.5-5.5 (Mohs scale), Color: Rusty brown to dark gray/black exterior, Luster: Metallic to sub-metallic (often dull due to oxidation), Crystal Structure: Octahedral or massive, Specific Gravity: 7.0-8.0 (for iron-rich) or 3.0-4.0 (for stone-heavy types). Often magnetic.

Hardness: 4

Identified March 29, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the core of ancient protoplanets (iron types) or the solar nebula (stony types) approximately 4.5 billion years ago. These artifacts are remnants of the early solar system that survived atmospheric entry.

Uses & applications

Primarily for scientific research and private collecting. Iron-nickel is also a source of extraterrestrial metals like iridium and kamacite, and occasionally used in custom knife-making or high-end jewelry (slices).

Geological facts

Many meteorites found on Earth are older than the planet itself. The brown crust visible is likely a 'fusion crust' that formed as the rock melted while passing through Earth's atmosphere, then oxidized (rusted) over time.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by checking for high density (heavier than normal rocks), magnetism, and a distinct regmaglypts (thumbprint-like indentations). Commonly found in desert regions or Antarctica where they stand out. Check for a silver-metallic window by grinding a small corner.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral