Buying a meteorite means acquiring a fragment of space, a unique object steeped in history. But how can you be sure you’re buying a genuine meteorite? The market is full of tempting offers, but not all of them are reliable. You need to know the right criteria before taking the plunge.

In this article, we explain why the choice of supplier is essential, what types of meteorites to buy and how to store them properly. You’ll also find out where to buy a certified meteorite safely.

1. Choosing the right meteorite supplier

The meteorite market attracts collectors and enthusiasts, but also unscrupulous sellers. The choice of supplier is the key to a successful purchase. Here are the things to check before buying a meteorite:

• Certificate of authenticity: a first indicator, but not enough
  A certificate often accompanies the meteorites sold. However, it has no legal value in France. It is therefore essential to request additional information, such as analysis results.

• Laboratory analysis: a scientific guarantee
  Authentic meteorites must be analyzed by a recognized laboratory. Check that the supplier has analysis reports from reputable institutes. These analyses confirm the rock’s extraterrestrial origin and prevent counterfeiting.

• Membership of recognized associations
  A serious seller is often a member of the Meteoritical Society or theIMCA (International Meteorite Collectors Association). These organizations guarantee that sellers comply with scientific standards.

• Provenance and traceability
  A meteorite must be recorded with a clear provenance: date and place of discovery, classification, and separation of the different fragments if it has been found in several pieces.

2. What type of meteorite should I buy?

There are many types of meteorite, each with its own unique properties. Here are four categories prized by collectors.

Ferrous meteorites (siderites) – Example: Aletai

Ferrous meteorites are composed mainly of iron and nickel. They come from the cores of ancient asteroids.

• Very dense and heavy.

• Magnetic.

• Reveal Widmanstätten patterns when polished.

• Case in point: Aletai, a ferrous meteorite discovered in China, prized for its spectacular internal structure.

Martian meteorites – Example: Amgala 001

Martian meteorites are extremely rare and come from Mars, ejected by a violent impact.

• Less than 0.1% of meteorites found.

• Dark rock with traces of Martian minerals.

• Example: Amgala 001, a shergottite recently discovered in the Sahara.

Lunar meteorites – Example: Laâyoune 003

Lunar meteorites are as rare as Martian ones.

• From lunar ejecta propelled by impacts.

• Contains anorthosite, typical of the lunar crust.

• Example: Laâyoune 003, a lunar feldspathic breccia discovered in Western Sahara.

Stony meteorites (chondrites, achondrites) – Example: NWA 14093

Stony meteorites are the most common. They often contain chondrules, small silicate spherules.

• Rich in primitive minerals.

• Some have metallic inclusions.

• Example: NWA 14093, a mixed mesosiderite (iron and silicates) discovered in North Africa.

3. How do you store a meteorite?

A well-preserved meteorite retains its value and beauty. Here are the essential tips:

• Protect from humidity: oxidation is the main enemy of ferrous meteorites. Store them in a dry environment with silica gel.

• Handle with care: use cotton gloves to avoid acidic perspiration which could damage the surface.

• Monitor oxidation: if rust appears, treat it immediately with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.

• Display under glass: to avoid excessive contact with the air, place your meteorites in an airtight display case.

4. Where can I buy a genuine meteorite?

For a safe meteorite purchase, choose a specialized and certified supplier. Space Rocks is the reference for buying an authentic meteorite on Acheter-Météorites.com.

• All meteorites sold are authenticated.

• Our suppliers are members of the Meteoritical Society andIMCA , as well as leading names in mineralogy.

• Certificates accompany each piece.

Add a fragment of space to your collection!

Buying a meteorite is a unique experience. Choose an authentic, certified piece from Acheter-Météorites.com and hold a real piece of space in your hand!