Is it a Meteorite? Las Vegas Hiker Finds 81.7g Object

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a hiker in Las Vegas who discovered an 81.7g object, speculated to be either hematite or iron furnace slag based on its weight and appearance. Forum member Dave provided insights, identifying characteristics such as bubble holes and flow patterns that suggest the object is likely furnace slag rather than a meteorite. He also shared examples from his personal collection of iron meteorites, including specimens from China, Sweden, and Morocco. The conversation highlights the importance of visual analysis in identifying geological specimens.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic knowledge of mineralogy and geology
  • Familiarity with meteorite classification
  • Understanding of visual characteristics of hematite and furnace slag
  • Experience with rock and mineral identification techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and identification methods for hematite
  • Learn about the characteristics of iron furnace slag
  • Explore the classification of iron meteorites, focusing on types like IAB and Muonionalusta
  • Investigate visual analysis techniques for geological specimens
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for amateur geologists, mineral collectors, and anyone interested in identifying and classifying geological specimens, particularly those with an interest in meteorites and their characteristics.

kolleamm
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I was hiking today in the desert in Las Vegas and I came across this. It weighs about 81.7g and feels pretty heavy for its size which is about 1.85in across the longest distance.
What do you think it is?
 

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kolleamm said:
What do you think it is?

Greetings
Looking through the pic's and in particular #5 and #6 ( img 0143 and 0144)
My first thoughts are hematite or iron furnace slag. All the bubble holes and the style of flow that can be seen on those pic's
is the giveaway particularly for it being furnace slagcheers
Dave
 
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davenn said:
Greetings
Looking through the pic's and in particular #5 and #6 ( img 0143 and 0144)
My first thoughts are hematite or iron furnace slag. All the bubble holes and the style of flow that can be seen on those pic's
is the giveaway particularly for it being furnace slagcheers
Dave
Thanks for the help! Well at least I learned something today lol
Also cool meteorites you got there!
 
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kolleamm said:
Thanks for the help! Well at least I learned something today lol
Also cool meteorites you got there!

You are welcome :smile:
meteorites ( and rocks minerals and fossil collecting are serious passions of mine for the last 50 yrs)
Meteorites mainly for the last 30 years

Always feel free to ask, I will help out in whatever way I can

Dave
 
davenn said:
Some examples of iron meteorites
(from my own collection)
I swear you are doing this to add to my temptations ! They are very exiting things.
 
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sophiecentaur said:
I swear you are doing this to add to my temptations ! They are very exiting things.

Give into it, there's a lot worse things you could be addicted to :smile:
 
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