meteorite
Meteorite
Chondrite / Iron-Nickel Meteorite
Hardness: 5-8 on Mohs scale depending on composition; Color: dark brown to black with metallic undertones; Luster: metallic to dull earthy; Structure: crystalline (Widmanstätten pattern in iron variants) or chondritic; Specific gravity: 3.0-8.0.
- Hardness
- 5-8 on Mohs scale depending on composition
- Color
- dark brown to black with metallic undertones
- Luster
- metallic to dull earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-8 on Mohs scale depending on composition; Color: dark brown to black with metallic undertones; Luster: metallic to dull earthy; Structure: crystalline (Widmanstätten pattern in iron variants) or chondritic; Specific gravity: 3.0-8.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed in the early solar system approximately 4.5 billion years ago, originating from asteroid belt fragments or planetary bodies, and subsequently falling to Earth.
Uses & applications
Scientific research, planetary evolution studies, and high-value private collection and jewelry.
Geological facts
Meteorites provide pristine chemical samples of the early solar system conditions and ancient planetary cores that are otherwise inaccessible.
Field identification & locations
Often identified by fusion crusts, magnetic properties, heavy weight relative to size, and regmaglypts (thumbprint-like depressions on the surface).
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Impactite (Shatter Cone texture)
metamorphic
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Chondrite / Iron-Nickel Meteorite fragment
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Pallasite Meteorite
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Mineral/Extraterrestrial Rock
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