Stony-iron meteorites · AustroMeteorites

Schematic example illustration for the knowledge article “Stony-iron meteorites” — **Original topic-specific example image**Digitally created schematic illustration — not a product photograph or a substitute for an examined specimen.

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Detailed explanation

This traditional main class combines metallic phases such as kamacite and taenite with silicates. Its two major classes are pallasites and mesosiderites.

Despite the shared name, they have very different textures and formation histories.

Main classes: pallasites · mesosiderites

Placed in context

Groups and subgroups

These cards show the next classification level. Linked groups open their own detailed explanation.

Pallasites

Olivine crystals in an iron-nickel metal network; several genetically distinct groups are known.

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Mesosiderites

Breccias of basaltic to deep-crustal silicate fragments and iron-nickel metal, intensely mixed by collisions.

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Different kinds of mixture

Pallasites usually show olivine crystals in metal. Mesosiderites are complex breccias of silicate and metallic debris.

A practical class, not one shared origin

Stony-iron meteorites contain conspicuous amounts of both silicate rock and iron-nickel metal. The traditional name describes this mixture and must not be mistaken for one common formation process.

Pallasites usually contain olivine crystals in metal; mesosiderites are complex breccias of metal with basaltic and deeper rock fragments. Chemistry and isotopes show that the two families are not merely variants of one parent body.

Appearance, density and preservation

On polished surfaces, metal may appear brightly reflective while silicates form grains or fragments. Pallasitic olivine may be yellow-green to brown and partly translucent; mesosiderites often look more irregular and brecciated.

Metal raises density and corrosion risk. Moisture can oxidise iron and promote cracks at silicate boundaries. Attractive appearance or high density still does not prove authenticity; classification and documented provenance remain essential.

Short & simple

The essentials in 30 seconds

Meteorites containing substantial silicate minerals and iron-nickel metal.
This traditional main class combines metallic phases such as kamacite and taenite with silicates. Its two major classes are pallasites and mesosiderites.
Despite the shared name, they have very different textures and formation histories.

Verifiable

Sources & databases

Editorially paraphrased and expanded from the linked specialist and primary sources; reviewed 24 August 2026. New classifications and database entries may require later updates.