meteorite

Native copper-rich iron meteorite (likely Canyon Diablo/meteorite-like specimen)

Iron–nickel alloy, chiefly kamacite and taenite (Fe-Ni), with oxidized copper/iron sulfide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown-black, rounded and strongly melted-looking, with metallic to dull luster and numerous cavities/inclusions; hardness about 4–5.5 Mohs, very high density (~7–8 g/cm³), and no cleavage. The apparent copper-colored patches may be oxidation products or metal-rich inclusions.

Identified September 11, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed in the metallic core of a differentiated asteroid and crystallized billions of years ago, then melted or ablated during atmospheric entry; surface weathering produced the brown-black patina. Exact identification requires testing because industrial slag can look similar.

Uses & applications

Meteorites are primarily collector and educational specimens; iron meteorites may be cut, etched, and polished to reveal Widmanstätten patterns. Similar-looking slag has little commercial value and is used mainly as industrial waste or aggregate.

Geological facts

A magnet response, unusually high weight, and nickel detection strongly support meteorite origin, but vesicular texture and abundant coppery inclusions can indicate smelter slag. A polished-and-etched slice is the diagnostic test for an iron meteorite.

Field identification & locations

Common iron meteorite localities include Arizona, Namibia, Argentina, and Antarctica; verify with a magnet, density measurement, streak, and laboratory nickel assay. Estimated value: $1–$10/g if authenticated and attractive; slag-like material generally under $5.