Gibeon Meteorite
Nickel-Iron Meteorite (Octahedrite) · Meteoritic Material
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric) for kamacite and taenite phases
Mineral Group
Native Elements
Chemical Formula
Fe,Ni with trace amounts of Co, P, Ga, Ge, and Ir
Formation Process
Extraterrestrial crystallization from a molten planetary core asteroid, cooling over millions of years at a rate of a few degrees per million years
About This Crystal
This is a polished and etched cut section of a metallic iron meteorite displaying a distinct Widmanstätten pattern. The pattern consists of intersecting lamellae of kamacite and taenite, characteristic of medium octahedrites. The metallic luster shines with silvery-gray tones, showing linear grain structures and etched crystal boundaries.
Physical Characteristics
Metallic gray body color, dark grey to black streak due to metallic nature, no cleavage, hackly fracture, high specific gravity around 7.8 to 7.9, malleable to somewhat brittle depending on nickel content, highly magnetic.
Optical Properties
Opaque with a strong metallic luster. No refraction, birefringence, or traditional optical gemstone phenomena; instead, it exhibits anisotropic etching patterns (Widmanstätten figures) when treated with acid.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Great Namaland, Namibia (Gibeon desert area), formed in the asteroid belt
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness around 4 to 4.5. Good toughness, but highly susceptible to oxidation (rusting) if exposed to moisture and humidity. Requires protective sealing for long-term preservation.
Care & Maintenance
Keep completely dry and store in a low-humidity environment with silica gel. Clean only with a dry cloth or specialized mineral oil/Renaissance wax to prevent oxidation. Avoid water, harsh chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.
Rarity & Value
Rare and highly collectible. Value is determined by weight, provenance, perfection and beauty of the Widmanstätten pattern, and the absence of terrestrial weathering. Prices range from moderate to high for certified Gibeon fragments.
Special Characteristics
Exhibits the iconic Widmanstätten pattern (or Thomson structures), which are unique nickel-iron crystal intergrowths that can only form in microgravity over millions of years of extremely slow cooling inside an asteroid core.
Lore & History
Discovered extensively in prehistoric times by the indigenous Nama people, who used the iron to craft tools and weapons. In modern metaphysical practices, meteorite is believed to facilitate spiritual grounding, transformation, and a connection to cosmic energy, though these remain traditional beliefs rather than scientific facts.