Canyon Diablo Iron Meteorite Individual – Genuine Space Rock from Meteor Crater, Arizona

Authentic Canyon Diablo Iron Meteorite – Genuine Individual from Meteor Crater, Arizona

This genuine Canyon Diablo Meteorite Individual is an authentic fragment from the world-famous Meteor Crater (Barringer Crater) near Winslow, Arizona, USA. Originating from one of Earth’s most iconic meteorite impact sites, this iron meteorite represents the remnants of a colossal asteroid that collided with our planet approximately 50,000 years ago during the Pleistocene epoch. Each specimen is a tangible piece of cosmic history, formed in the early solar system over 4.5 billion years ago and delivered to Earth in a cataclysmic event that forever changed the landscape of northern Arizona.

Every meteorite we offer is 100% genuine and comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photograph shows the exact specimen you will receive, displayed beside a 1 cm scale cube for accurate size reference. Please see the photo for full sizing details.

Scientific Classification and Composition

The Canyon Diablo Meteorite is classified as a Coarse Octahedrite, IAB-MG (Main Group) Iron Meteorite. It is composed primarily of iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni), with trace amounts of cobalt, phosphorus, and sulphur. The structure of the meteorite reveals the classic crystalline Widmanstätten pattern—a geometric intergrowth of kamacite and taenite—which is unique to meteorites and forms only under incredibly slow cooling conditions within an asteroid’s core over millions of years.

Characteristic accessory minerals found in Canyon Diablo include troilite (FeS), graphite (C), and schreibersite ((Fe,Ni)₃P). These inclusions are of great scientific interest because they record the original metallic and chemical environment of the early solar nebula. The meteorite’s high nickel content and structural stability make it one of the most widely studied iron meteorites in existence.

Impact and Geological History

The Canyon Diablo meteorite is part of the Meteor Crater (Barringer Crater) strewn field, one of the most perfectly preserved impact sites on Earth. Measuring roughly 1.2 kilometres across and 170 metres deep, the crater was formed when a massive iron-nickel asteroid travelling at more than 12 kilometres per second impacted the Earth’s surface. The explosion released energy equivalent to 20–40 megatons of TNT, vaporising much of the meteorite and scattering countless fragments across the surrounding desert.

These surviving iron fragments—like this specimen—were blasted out from the main impact and buried in the arid soil of the Arizona desert. Because of the area’s dry environment, many pieces remain exceptionally well-preserved, with visible regmaglypts (natural thumbprint-like depressions) and a darkened patina resulting from atmospheric entry and long-term terrestrial weathering.

Scientific and Collectable Importance

Canyon Diablo is one of the most famous meteorites in both scientific research and collecting history. It was among the first meteorites used to determine the absolute age of the Earth through isotopic dating of lead and uranium ratios—an achievement that established its role in advancing planetary science. Its unique mineral composition and metallurgical structure have made it an archetype for the IAB iron meteorite group, referenced in countless academic studies.

Collectors and museums worldwide prize Canyon Diablo specimens for their historical provenance, scientific value, and dramatic visual appeal. Each individual piece provides a window into the core of an ancient asteroid, a remnant of the primordial material from which the terrestrial planets formed. This makes it not only a geological treasure but a true cosmic artefact—bridging the worlds of astronomy, geology, and human curiosity.

Physical Characteristics

This particular Canyon Diablo individual exhibits a natural exterior with well-defined regmaglypts, metallic sheen beneath a thin oxide layer, and the characteristic dense weight of a solid iron-nickel meteorite. Its form reflects its turbulent journey through Earth’s atmosphere and subsequent interaction with the desert environment. The surface patina enhances its aesthetic, ranging from silvery-grey to deep brown hues depending on exposure and oxidation.

When cut or polished, interior sections reveal a distinctive Widmanstätten pattern, though this specimen has been left in its natural state for authenticity and preservation. Each meteorite fragment is unique—no two are ever identical in texture or shape—making this piece a truly singular addition to any collection.

Authenticity and Presentation

All of our meteorites are 100% genuine specimens and include a Certificate of Authenticity verifying origin and classification. The photograph shows the exact Canyon Diablo Iron Meteorite Individual you will receive, displayed beside a 1 cm scale cube for precise reference—please see the image for full sizing details.

An exceptional opportunity to own a genuine piece of space history, this Canyon Diablo Meteorite from Meteor Crater, Arizona is a timeless relic of cosmic origin—an authentic fragment of the asteroid that struck Earth with unimaginable power, preserved for you to hold in your hands.