Mysterious Ancient Culture Forged a Weapon From a Fallen Star

Archaeologists reported an axe-like iron artifact from Sanxingdui dated to the Shang period.

X‑ray fluorescence showed the object is about 90% iron with 7.41% nickel, consistent with meteoritic iron.

The piece was recovered from Pit No. 7 and measures roughly 20 cm by 5–8 cm in poor condition.

Researchers say the find predates widespread iron smelting in China and may reflect ritual use of meteorite metal.