Authentic Campo del Cielo Iron Meteorite Fragment - Height: 60 mm - Width: 47 mm- 163 g - (1)

A cosmic fragment from the remote Chaco region, witness to a prehistoric impact — This specimen represents an authentic fragment of the famous Campo del Cielo meteorite, classified as IAB-MG (Iron, Group IAB, Main Group), a type of iron meteorite composed predominantly of iron-nickel alloys, with smaller percentages of elements such as cobalt, phosphorus, sulfur, and carbon. Its metal composition crystallized in an octahedrite structure is the result of slow cooling within an asteroid parent body. Visual analysis reveals an intensely sculpted outer surface, characterized by deep, distinctive regmaglypts. These marks, reminiscent of fingerprint patterns, result from selective ablation of rocky and metallic material during the fiery passage through Earth’s atmosphere. The surface patina, silvery-gray with slight brownish hues due to post-fall superficial oxidation processes, preserves traces of the original fusion crust. The meteorite’s provenance is the expansive Campo del Cielo plain, located between the provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero in Argentina. This locality is famous for hosting one of the most significant meteorite impacts in recent Earth history, occurring about 4,000–5,000 years ago. The area is scattered with impact craters and thousands of tons of meteorite fragments, making it one of the most prolific sources in the world for iron meteorite specimens. Aesthetically, the specimen stands out for its irregular yet harmonious shape and for the richness of surface details, which offer clear evidence of the extreme forces endured during its space journey and atmospheric entry. The mass of the piece allows for a solid grip, enabling appreciation of its density and tactile qualities, typical of iron meteorites. Its state of preservation is excellent, with no signs of improper handling or surface treatments that would alter its authenticity. The piece is in its natural condition, exactly as recovered, with all morphological peculiarities generated by cosmic and atmospheric events intact. It requires no additional supports and can be exhibited directly on a flat base. For the collector, this meteorite represents not only a tangible piece of cosmic history but also a highly valuable educational specimen for scientific study. Its well-documented provenance and its morphological characteristics make it a reference point for the study of IAB-MG iron meteorites, offering direct comparison with other Campo del Cielo specimens and meteorites of different origins. It is an opportunity to own a fragment from another world.