Iron is one of the most widespread and abundant metals on Earth. It is usually found bound to other chemical elements such as carbon or nickel, and very rarely found in its pure state; the small amounts of pure iron on our planet are probably of extra-terrestrial origin, brought here by meteorites.
The iron obtained from meteorites was, as early as 4000 BC, used by the Sumerian people to create spearheads and small jewels.
