Aletai is a notable Iron meteorite from Xinjiang, China, and is recognised as one of the significant large Iron meteorite finds. It belongs to the IIIE-an group, an anomalous classification within the IIIE Iron meteorites, reflecting its distinctive chemistry and structure. Formed over 4.5 billion years ago, Aletai represents metallic material from an early differentiated asteroid, where molten iron-nickel cooled slowly within a parent body before being broken apart by impacts and eventually arriving on Earth.

Aletai is composed primarily of iron-nickel metal and can display attractive Widmanstätten patterns when cut and etched. Its structure is typically coarse, with broad metallic crystal bands that reflect extremely slow cooling over geological timescales. Some specimens may show areas of weathering or natural exterior texture, while polished slices and prepared pieces reveal the internal crystalline pattern that makes Iron meteorites so recognisable. Its anomalous IIIE classification adds further interest, separating it from more typical Iron meteorite groups.

Studying Aletai provides valuable insight into the diversity of metallic core material from early planetary bodies. Its unusual chemistry helps scientists refine Iron meteorite classification and better understand how different parent bodies cooled and evolved. For collectors, Aletai is desirable due to its large known masses, distinctive etched patterns, and recognised classification. Each specimen represents a piece of ancient asteroid core material with both visual appeal and scientific significance.