meteorite

Metallic iron meteorite (probable)

Iron–nickel alloy, chiefly kamacite and taenite (Fe-Ni)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark metallic-gray, strongly reflective, irregular melted-looking surface; likely very dense and magnetic. Freshly cut iron meteorites commonly show a crystalline Widmanstätten pattern, while the pictured surface may display regmaglypts and fusion crust; hardness is roughly 4–5 Mohs, with no cleavage.

Identified September 9, 2026More meteorite →

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At a glance

Common name: Metallic iron meteorite (probable)
Scientific name: Iron–nickel alloy, chiefly kamacite and taenite (Fe-Ni)
Category: meteorite
Identified: September 9, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 per gram for common unverified iron meteorite material; authenticated, attractive or historically significant specimens may range from $20 to over $100 per gram.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid, then exposed during atmospheric entry; most are billions of years old, commonly about 4.5 billion years. The sculpted depressions can result from ablation during atmospheric flight.

Uses & applications

Primarily valued for scientific study and collecting; cut and polished material is used in jewelry, displays, and educational specimens.

Geological facts

Iron meteorites are mainly nickel-iron and are usually much denser than terrestrial rocks. Identification requires testing rather than appearance alone.

Field identification & locations

Check for strong attraction to a magnet, unusually high density, and a nickel reaction or laboratory analysis; terrestrial slag, hematite, and metallic ore can look similar. Professional confirmation should use compositional testing and inspection of a polished slice.