Selling a meteorite, a fragment of an asteroid or planet that survived passage through Earth’s atmosphere, represents a direct link to the formation of the solar system. The process involves a methodical sequence of steps, beginning with confirmation of its extraterrestrial origin. Navigating the sale requires a focused approach that maximizes the specimen’s value and ensures compliance with established market practices.
Confirming Authenticity
The first step is securing professional confirmation that the specimen is genuinely a meteorite. Before seeking professional help, an amateur can perform preliminary tests by observing specific physical characteristics. Most meteorites possess a dark, thin exterior known as a fusion crust, which forms as the rock’s outer layer melts during transit through the atmosphere.
The surface may also display shallow, thumbprint-like depressions called regmaglypts, created by atmospheric ablation. Meteorites are often unusually dense and feel heavier than typical Earth rocks; iron meteorites, for example, can be three to four times denser than common terrestrial stone.
A simple magnet test is also suggestive, as nearly all meteorites contain iron-nickel metal and will attract a standard magnet. Confirmation must be sought from a specialized geologist or a university laboratory with meteorite expertise. Professional analysis is necessary to differentiate the specimen from common industrial slag or iron ore, which can mimic some features.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
After the extraterrestrial nature is confirmed, the next step involves determining the specific type and securing an official name. Meteorites are generally categorized into three broad groups: stony meteorites (aerolites), iron meteorites (siderites), and stony-iron meteorites (siderolites). These groups are further broken down into numerous classifications based on their makeup, which correlates to their scientific importance and market rarity.
The official naming and documentation process, known as nomenclature, is managed internationally by the Nomenclature Committee of the Meteoritical Society. Submitting a sample for analysis allows the specimen to be classified and, if new, assigned a unique name and recorded in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. This official classification establishes the rock’s provenance and maximum commercial value.
Determining the Value
The market price is determined by rarity and aesthetic appeal, which are the most significant drivers of price per gram. Meteorites from the Moon or Mars are rare, often commanding prices exceeding $1,000 per gram. Conversely, common stony meteorites, such as ordinary chondrites, are widely available and may sell for only a few dollars per gram.
The Total Known Weight (TKN) of a specific type is a major determinant of rarity; specimens with a low TKN are valued more highly than those from a large strewn field. Aesthetic qualities also affect pricing, especially for collectors, where features like an intact fusion crust or prominent regmaglypts increase demand.
For iron and stony-iron meteorites, the quality of the cut and polish is paramount, as it reveals internal structures. Documented provenance, particularly if the rock was a witnessed fall, adds a premium to the price by providing verifiable history.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before initiating a sale, the seller must establish clear ownership rights, which are dictated by the location of the find. Under common law, a meteorite found on private property generally belongs to the landowner. However, if the specimen was recovered on federal or public land, such as a national park, it is typically considered government property and may be acquired by institutions like the Smithsonian Institution.
It is necessary to consult local laws, as ownership regulations vary significantly between jurisdictions. There is also an ethical responsibility to ensure a portion of any scientifically significant find is made available for academic study before being sold. Exporting the specimen internationally may also be regulated, with some countries requiring permits or imposing a waiting period for local museums to purchase the find.
Choosing the Right Sales Venue
Selecting the appropriate sales channel directly influences the realized price and the speed of the transaction. Selling directly to a specialized dealer or broker offers the quickest path to a sale, as they handle market exposure and logistics. This convenience often results in a lower price, as the dealer must factor in their operational costs and profit margin.
For authenticated and classified specimens, consignment to a major auction house can yield the highest price, especially for rare pieces. Auction houses provide access to a global network of high-end collectors, but they charge significant commissions and require established documentation and a verifiable history. Online marketplaces and dedicated collector forums offer a direct-to-consumer option, providing control over pricing and access to enthusiasts.
Maximizing the return requires meticulous preparation of the specimen, including professional cutting and slicing to reveal internal characteristics. Presenting the meteorite with accurate weight measurements and all official certification documentation, including the Meteoritical Society classification, builds buyer confidence and justifies a higher asking price. Sellers must also develop expertise in high-quality photography and detailed description writing to compete effectively.