meteorite

Possible metallic meteorite or iron-rich mineral

Uncertain; visually compatible with an iron meteorite, metal-rich chondrite, or magnetite-bearing rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, dark, strongly metallic-looking specimen with bright silvery-gold reflective patches and irregular/angular surfaces. Hardness and magnetism are not shown; meteorite identification requires testing for nickel-iron, density, and absence of abundant vesicles or slag-like texture.

Identified August 13, 2026More meteorite →

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At a glance

Common name: Possible metallic meteorite or iron-rich mineral
Scientific name: Uncertain; visually compatible with an iron meteorite, metal-rich chondrite, or magnetite-bearing rock
Category: meteorite
Identified: August 13, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$0-$10 if slag or common terrestrial ore; roughly $20-$200+ if authenticated as an ordinary small meteorite, with unusual types worth substantially more.

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

If meteoritic, it formed in an asteroid and may be billions of years old before falling to Earth. The reported Yemen-region location also contains abundant terrestrial dark volcanic and iron-oxide rocks, so a terrestrial mineral is at least as plausible from this image alone.

Uses & applications

Confirmed meteorites have collector value; common magnetite or industrial slag generally has little value. Do not cut or acid-test it before documentation if a meteorite is suspected.

Geological facts

A shiny surface alone does not prove meteorite origin: metallic slag, galena, chalcopyrite, magnetite, and hematite can look similar. Nickel-iron meteorites commonly show a dense feel and may reveal Widmanstätten patterns after professional etching.

Field identification & locations

Test with a strong magnet, measure density, and inspect a fresh chip for metal throughout; meteorites usually lack obvious bubbles and have a thin fusion crust. A streak test, iron-nickel analysis, and thin-section or XRF examination are needed for reliable identification. Common regional alternatives include magnetite-rich basalt or slag.