Rock Identifier
Stainless Steel (Polished) (Ferrous Alloy containing Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), and Carbon (C)) — Mineral equivalent / Metal Alloy
Mineral equivalent / Metal Alloy

Stainless Steel (Polished)

Ferrous Alloy containing Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), and Carbon (C)

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Silver to grey; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (BCC or FCC depending on temperature/processing); Specific Gravity: 7.5 - 8.0

Hardness
5
Color
Silver to grey
Luster
Metallic
Identified More mineral equivalent / metal alloy →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.5 Mohs; Color: Silver to grey; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (BCC or FCC depending on temperature/processing); Specific Gravity: 7.5 - 8.0

Formation & geological history

Anthropogenic (Man-made). Formed through the metallurgical smelting of iron ore combined with chromium and other elements to create a corrosion-resistant alloy.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in cookware, cutlery, medical surgical instruments, construction cladding, and industrial hardware due to its high corrosion resistance and strength.

Geological facts

Chromium is the 'magic' ingredient; it creates a microscopic ‘passivation layer’ of chromium oxide on the surface which heals itself when scratched, preventing the iron from rusting.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its non-magnetic properties (if austenitic), silver-grey color, high reflectivity, and resistance to oxidation (no rust). Commonly found as household kitchenware.

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Metal Alloy (Likely Pewter or Sterling Silver)

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Man-made material (metal)
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Gold (10K Alloy)

Aurum (Au) with alloying metals (Cu, Ag, Zn)

mineral
One Pound Coin (UK) (Nickel-Brass Alloy (Cu-Zn-Ni)) — mineral

One Pound Coin (UK)

Nickel-Brass Alloy (Cu-Zn-Ni)

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Man-made Metal Pin (Non-geological)

Antimony-Lead Alloy or Zinc/Brass Base with Electroplating

Metal Alloy / Manufactured Artifact
Metal Chain (Likely Steel or a Steel Alloy) (Steel (primarily iron and carbon); specific alloy unknown) — Man-made Object (Metal/Alloy)

Metal Chain (Likely Steel or a Steel Alloy)

Steel (primarily iron and carbon); specific alloy unknown

Man-made Object (Metal/Alloy)