Expert: C. Robert Reszka, Jr. - 10/26/2009

Question
I found a rock in a field in southern Quebec that is different than anything I have ever seen before. Everyone that I show it to says the same. The exterior is a burn't black/brown, the interior is slightly rusted, it's very heavy for it's size, magnets stick to it, and it has light green, web like lines all over it. It split open along the lines.The lines are what you notice the most. I've been told that it is not a meteorite, but would like to know exactly what it is.

Answer
Hi David,
I'm really going to need to see a picture to get a better idea of what you have.  Not too many rocks are magnetic and none I can think of have a web of green lines over it.  Without seeing it, but from your description; "black/brown" exterior, "slightly rusted" interior, heavy for it's size, and it's being magnetic, all lead me to believe it isn't a rock but a piece of metallic slag.  I have seen many pieces like you describe, except for the lines.  Since you are in Quebec perhaps it made it's way, who knows how, from an ore freighter from the Great Lakes.  

I don't know.  If you send me a picture I might be able to tell better.  If you do take one make sure it has something in the frame that will give me an idea of it's size, a coin will do.  Also, tell me where you found it, can you scratch it with a knife, will it cut glass, if you hit it with a hammer does it ring?
I'll look for another question from you if you take a picture.
Hope this helps.
Bob