The question of Eaton: terrestrial versus meteoritic copper

The Eaton 'meteorite' contains roughly 66 per cent Cu, 33 per cent Zn and <0.1 per cent Ni. In contrast, native Cu from other meteorites contains >90 per cent Cu, <5 per cent Zn and in those samples in which it could be measured, 0.4-2.4 per cent Ni. The major phases and inclusions of Eaton closely resemble those in commercial yellow brass. Eaton contains α and β Cu-Zn, small Pb inclusions around the Cu-Zn crystals and larger Ca aluminosilicate inclusions similar to those from sand casting molds. Based on these data Eaton does not appear to be a meteorite. Both meteoritic and terrestrial native copper are striking for their relatively high purity. Meteoritic Cu appears to be distinguishable from terrestrial material by its higher Ni contents.