Meteorite
The term "meteorite" is derived from the word meteoron (something in the sky), and the Japanese name "in-seki" signifies falling from a high place to the ground. Most meteorites originate from the "asteroid belt" and are considered invaluable rocks that hold data from approximately 4.5 to 4.6 billion years ago, at the time of their formation.
A rare natural material containing extraterrestrial information
Basic Information
| English Name | Meteorite |
|---|---|
| Japanese Name | In-seki (Meteorite) |
| Chemical Formula | Variable (due to being rock) |
| Classification | Iron Meteorite / Stony Meteorite / Stony-Iron Meteorite |
| Hardness | Variable |
| Specific Gravity | Variable |
| Transparency | Opaque (generally) |
Characteristics & Variations
- Fusion Crust: The surface is often covered in a glassy melted film.
- Chondrules: In stony meteorites (chondrites), grains of approximately 1mm in size may be visible.
- Widmanstätten Pattern: Iron meteorites display a unique intersecting pattern of Fe and Ni when etched.
- Pallasite: A type of stony-iron meteorite where yellowish-green peridot (olivine) is scattered within an iron-nickel matrix (may also contain pyroxene crystals).
Treatments & Related Info
Treatments: Etching (to reveal patterns in iron meteorites), coating (rhodium plating, copper plating, lacquer, synthetic resins, etc.).
Related Info: In the bead market, stony meteorites from the Sahara (known as "NWA" chondrites) and iron meteorites from Africa (Gibeon, classified as octahedrites) are commonly traded.
Related Info: For all meteorites, those with recorded and registered fall locations and dates are highly valuable.
Related Info: Tektite (meteorite glass) and moldavite are glasses formed by the impact of a meteorite.
Note: For metallic specimens, oxidation (rust) prevention is crucial. As appearance can change depending on the presence of a coating and storage environment, please establish a care routine accordingly.