Gebel Kamil Iron Meteorite, Ungrouped Ataxite, Select Size, in Acrylic Gift Box w/COA

A genuine iron meteorite from the Egyptian desert -- in three sizes

Gebel Kamil is one of the most well-documented iron meteorite finds of the modern era. Discovered in 2009 in the Egyptian Sahara after being identified in satellite imagery, it produced thousands of individuals ranging from sub-gram fragments to pieces exceeding ten kilograms. Each specimen is a dense, metallic fragment of an asteroid that impacted Earth relatively recently in geological terms.

Select your size

Each size carries a guaranteed minimum weight. You will receive a specimen at or above the minimum for the size selected. Photos shown are representative examples from actual inventory -- every piece varies slightly in shape and surface detail.

Structure and features

Gebel Kamil is classified as an ungrouped ataxite -- an iron meteorite with such a high nickel content that it does not develop the Widmanstatten pattern seen in lower-nickel irons. Instead, the internal structure is dominated by fine-grained taenite, a nickel-iron mineral that gives the metal a smooth, homogeneous appearance in cross-section. At approximately 20% nickel by weight, Gebel Kamil sits at the high end of the nickel range for iron meteorites.

Externally, the specimens show the natural surface texture formed during atmospheric entry and subsequent weathering in the Egyptian desert. Regmaglypts -- thumb-print-like depressions formed by ablation during flight -- are often visible even on small fragments.

Scientific context

Ungrouped iron meteorites like Gebel Kamil do not fit cleanly into any of the established chemical groups defined by trace element composition. This makes them scientifically significant -- they likely sample parent bodies not represented by the major iron meteorite groups. Gebel Kamil's high nickel content and ataxitic structure suggest an origin in a small, rapidly cooled metallic body. The associated impact crater is approximately 45 meters in diameter and is one of the youngest confirmed meteorite craters on Earth. Learn more about iron meteorite classification on our Learn About Meteorites page.

Frequently asked questions

Is this meteorite authenticated? Yes. Gebel Kamil is an officially classified meteorite. See the Meteoritical Bulletin entry for Gebel Kamil. Every specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.

What does ungrouped ataxite mean? Ungrouped means the meteorite does not match the chemical fingerprint of any established iron meteorite group -- it likely comes from a unique parent body. Ataxite refers to the internal structure: with very high nickel content, no Widmanstatten pattern forms, resulting in a fine-grained homogeneous metal texture.

What is included? Your selected size specimen in an acrylic gift box, plus a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.

Collector significance

Gebel Kamil is one of the few iron meteorites with a confirmed, documented impact crater. That provenance -- a known fall location, a visible crater, satellite-confirmed discovery -- makes it historically significant beyond its classification. For collectors looking for an accessible entry point into iron meteorites, or an affordable gift for someone interested in space science, Gebel Kamil offers genuine scientific value at an approachable price point. Browse our full Iron Meteorites collection for additional specimens.