What's That Rock?Iron meteorite
A piece of metal from the core of a broken asteroid, made mostly of iron and nickel. It is very heavy and magnetic.
How to identify Iron meteorite
- Very heavy for its size
- Strongly attracted to a magnet
- Surface with shallow thumbprint-like dents and a thin dark crust
- Sliced and etched pieces show crossing lines (Widmanstätten pattern)
Often confused with
Real or fake?
- Most 'meteorite' finds are not meteorites. If it has bubbles or holes all through, or a rusty powdery crust, it is likely slag or rock
- A real expert or university lab should confirm any claimed meteorite
Is Iron meteorite valuable?
Value depends on type and size; only experts can judge.
Typical retail prices
Piece$0.4–5per gram
Priced per gram. Cut, etched slices and rare falls cost more.
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Type and fall: a named fall such as Gibeon, Muonionalusta or Campo del Cielo changes the price per gram
- Widmanstätten pattern: a cut, polished and etched slice showing the pattern costs far more than a raw piece
- Authenticity: most 'meteorites' are not meteorites; a lab classification or reputable dealer certificate matters
- Weight: priced per gram; large complete masses cost thousands
Uses
- Collecting
Care
Rusts in damp air. Keep dry and sealed.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026