mineral
Vesicular iron-rich slag or weathered metallic ore
Indeterminate; likely Fe-oxide-bearing slag (magnetite/hematite) rather than a specific natural mineral
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDark brown to black, highly porous and irregular, with bright silvery metallic patches and dull earthy surfaces. Hardness is variable, commonly about 5–6 for iron oxides and glassy slag; crystal structure and cleavage are not discernible from the image.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Vesicular iron-rich slag or weathered metallic ore in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Dark brown to black, highly porous and irregular, with bright silvery metallic patches and dull earthy surfaces. Hardness is variable, commonly about 5–6 for iron oxides and glassy slag; crystal structure and cleavage are not discernible from the image.
Formation & geological history
The vesicles and glossy metallic areas strongly suggest human-produced iron-smelting or forge slag, formed when molten silicate material cooled around gas bubbles; it is not assignable to a geological age without locality and testing.
Uses & applications
Usually a historical/industrial artifact or curiosity, with little commercial use; attractive pieces may be collected as archaeological or industrial slag specimens.
Geological facts
Magnetism, streak, density, and a fresh fracture are useful tests; iron-rich slag can resemble meteorites but typically has abundant bubbles and lacks a fusion crust.
Field identification & locations
Test with a strong magnet, inspect for flow texture and glass, and avoid assuming it is a meteorite. Natural iron ore commonly occurs in banded or massive seams, whereas this specimen’s vesicular texture favors slag.
