Bendego - Iron, IC

Bendegó is a historic IC Iron meteorite from Bahia, Brazil, discovered in 1784 near Monte Santo. With a main mass of around 5,360 kg, it is the largest Iron meteorite found in Brazil and one of the most important meteorites in Brazilian scientific history. It has been displayed at the National Museum in Rio de Janeiro since 1888 and famously survived the museum fire of 2018 without major damage. The Meteoritical Bulletin records Bendegó as an approved Brazilian Iron meteorite with several historic synonyms.

 

Bendegó is composed primarily of iron-nickel metal and is structurally described as a Coarse Octahedrite within the IC Iron group. Cut and etched material can display Widmanstätten patterns, while the main mass is known for surface depressions and cylindrical holes associated with troilite-rich areas. Collector specimens can vary from oxidised shale-like material to cleaner metallic fragments and slices, with unoxidised pieces being especially uncommon.

 

Studying Bendegó provides insight into early asteroid core material, Iron meteorite classification, and the long terrestrial history of large meteorite finds. Its historical importance, Brazilian provenance, museum association, and uncommon IC classification make it especially desirable for collectors of classic named meteorites. Each specimen represents ancient metallic asteroid material with a unique place in both scientific and cultural history.

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