Iron meteorite from Campo del Cielo, Argentina

A loose iron meteorite fragment from Campo del Cielo, Argentina. The piece has a distinct black oxidized outer patina, formed by 4000 years of contact with Earth.

The oxidation rate of iron meteorites under terrestrial conditions is significantly slower than that of ordinary iron; the addition of nickel (typically 6-12%) makes the alloy more corrosion-resistant. Nevertheless, a characteristic black oxidized outer layer (magnetite + goethite) develops over millennia.

This patina is an authenticity marker: terrestrial iron pieces usually develop an orange rust patina (hematite-dominated), while meteorites show a different spectral distribution of oxides.

The loose format is suitable for collector display cases, desk arrangements, or as a standalone mineral object. The natural weight density makes the compact piece haptically impressive.

An Argentine collector's item with a documented 4000-year oxidation patina and proven meteorite geochemistry.