Kamacite
ID: 27
Kamacite
Chemical Formula
(Fe,Ni)
Hardness (Mohs)
4.5 - 5
Crystal System
Isometric
Streak
Gray
Luster
Metallic
Diaphaneity
Opaque
Color
Steel-gray to silvery-white
Crystal Habit / Mode of Occurrence
Isometric - Hexoctahedral; typically massive, granular, or intergrown with taenite in meteorites (forming Widmanstätten patterns).
Fun Facts
Kamacite is almost exclusively found in iron meteorites and is a key component in creating the distinctive Widmanstätten patterns when etched. It is an iron-nickel alloy with 5-10% nickel. Common Uses: Primarily of scientific interest for studying meteorites; no practical industrial uses as a mineral.