1.61 ct DIABOLO NICKEL IRON METEORITE – USA

strong>Canyon Diablo Meteoric Iron

Canyon Diablo is a name that commands respect in both the halls of science and the world of rare artifacts. Falling nearly 50,000 years ago, it was the cosmic architect behind the famous Meteor Crater in Arizona. I have always found this material to be deeply grounding; it is a fragment of the nickel-iron core of an asteroid that slammed into our planet with the force of a nuclear explosion. While many collectors keep the raw, weathered fragments, we have taken the bold step of cutting and polishing sections to reveal the ancient, metallic heart within. It is a material that resists the blade with incredible tenacity, but the result is a “gemstone” of pure, unyielding power—a piece of the very asteroid that carved one of the most iconic landmarks on Earth.

The Heritage & Discovery

Historical Significance: Canyon Diablo is perhaps the most famous meteorite in the world. Historically, fragments were used by the local Hopi and Navajo tribes long before Western science recognized their cosmic origin. In the late 19th century, it was the focus of Daniel Barringer, who was the first to argue that the massive crater in Arizona was caused by a meteorite impact rather than a volcano. It represents the birth of modern impact science. In the world of fine collectibles, it is the definitive “Octahedrite,” standing as a symbol of the immense energy that shapes our solar system and the resilient iron that survives the journey.

Discovery: The fragments were first brought to the attention of the scientific community in 1891 by A.E. Foote. Since then, thousands of pieces have been recovered from the plains surrounding the crater. Scientifically, it is classified as a Group IAB coarse octahedrite. Its discovery provided the material that allowed scientists to first estimate the age of the Earth and the solar system, making it one of the most scientifically significant objects ever held by human hands.

Important Sources: The only source for this legendary iron is the Barringer Crater (Meteor Crater) and the surrounding Canyon Diablo region in Coconino County, Arizona, USA. Because the crater is a protected landmark, genuine Canyon Diablo material is increasingly difficult to source and is a finite treasure. I prioritize the dense, nickel-rich fragments for the vault, as they provide the best structural integrity for polishing and display.

Mineralogical Profile

Description: Canyon Diablo is an iron meteorite composed primarily of an iron-nickel alloy. It sits at a 4 to 5 on the Mohs scale, but its metallic toughness makes it a formidable challenge for even the most experienced lapidary. It is characterized by its brilliant metallic luster and its rugged, silver-grey appearance.

One of its most identifying traits is the presence of Cohenite (iron carbide) and rare Schreibersite inclusions, which are often found as dark, needle-like or blocky features within the metal. When etched, it displays a classic, coarse Widmanstätten pattern, the result of cooling over millions of years in the vacuum of space. Because it is an iron-based material, it is exceptionally dense ($7.8$ g/cm³) and highly magnetic. When polished, it exhibits a “raw metallic” brilliance that carries the scars and stories of its high-velocity impact. It is a heavy, powerful, and historically unparalleled material that remains a cornerstone of any serious cosmic collection.

Chemical Composition: Approximately 92% Iron (Fe), 7% Nickel (Ni), 0.5% Cobalt (Co), and 0.2% Phosphorus (P), with significant trace amounts of Gallium, Germanium, and Iridium.