Iron meteorites are solid fragments from space that primarily consist of iron and nickel. They originate from the cores of differentiated asteroids that broke apart during collisions in the early solar system. These meteorites are known for their metallic appearance and can be identified by their unique crystalline structures, often revealing a pattern called the Widmanstätten pattern when etched. These meteorites are relatively rare, making up about 5% of all meteorite finds. They are valuable for scientific research, as studying them can provide insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system. Iron meteorites can also be used in various applications, including jewelry and decorative items.