How To Tell If Meteorite Is Real
How To Tell If Meteorite Is Real
Meteorite has been one of the universe’s many curious objects. Coming across such a thing is already a rarity in itself, even more so when you realize that only 17 meteorites hit the earth everyday. Finding anything that claims to be made out of real meteorite–especially jewelry–is definitely enough to cause suspicion, and for good reason. Because of its rarity, it's no surprise that many can’t tell what differences lie between a real and fake meteorite. Approaching a professional is always and will be the most superior choice of action to determine an authentic meteorite, but when there isn’t one available, there are thankfully a few easy tests and other telltale signs to check so that you know how to tell if your meteorite is real.
1. What Is Meteorite?
A piece of meteorite is an asteroid that has not only penetrated the earth’s atmosphere, but also survived the journey to the surface of the earth without burning itself up completely. They are not to be confused with meteors, which do nto survive the atmosphere. Because of the earth’s atmosphere, meteors–otherwise known as shooting stars–tend to burn up entirely without ever making it to the surface. A meteoroid on the other hand, is simply an asteroid that floats in space. The difference in names really only refers to where an asteroid is in their journey!
A piece of meteorite is an asteroid that has not only penetrated the earth’s atmosphere, but also survived the journey to the surface of the earth without burning itself up completely. They are not to be confused with meteors, which do nto survive the atmosphere. Because of the earth’s atmosphere, meteors–otherwise known as shooting stars–tend to burn up entirely without ever making it to the surface. A meteoroid on the other hand, is simply an asteroid that floats in space. The difference in names really only refers to where an asteroid is in their journey!
2. How To Tell If Meteorite Is Real
Now that we’re all on the same page, we’re ready to get down to business! Take note that these tests are not completely definitive, but are simply steps in the right direction! Here are a few things to look for when deciphering if you have a genuine meteorite!
Now that we’re all on the same page, we’re ready to get down to business! Take note that these tests are not completely definitive, but are simply steps in the right direction! Here are a few things to look for when deciphering if you have a genuine meteorite!
Now that we’re all on the same page, we’re ready to get down to business! Take note that these tests are not completely definitive, but are simply steps in the right direction! Here are a few things to look for when deciphering if you have a genuine meteorite!
Widmanstatten Pattern
The first thing to look for when inspecting your meteorite jewelry is its very visible and striking interweaving cross-section design called the Widmanstatten pattern. This crystalline structure is not, man made, but is part of a meteorite’s molecular structure. They are nearly impossible to replicate, as there have been no successful attempts–even by scientists–to recreate the organized yet chaotic natural pattern that only emerges once etched in acid. Finding a piece of jewelry that showcases such an enigmatic design is surely one dead giveaway that you have a real meteorite!
Magnetic Properties
Because the chemical composition of meteorites contain iron and various other dense materials, having magnetic properties is another quality to look for in a real meteorite. Considering that the iron content in each meteorite may vary, some meteorites will definitely have a significantly stronger attraction to magnets than others, making it quite difficult to even separate. If it just so happens to have one that’s a little weaker than usual, then that’s nothing to worry about either! Any meteorite should be able to at least attract any magnet.
Rust
Seeing your meteorite rusting over time is in fact a quality that even more so proves its authenticity, so you need not worry about feeling deceived into buying something fake! Let’s not forget that meteorites contain iron, which are very prone to rusting from water, or any kind of moisture mixed with oxygen. The good news is, there are preventative measures in order to stop it from rusting even further!
3. Pros and Cons of Meteorite Rings
Pros
1. Unique design: Classic isn’t exactly the look you’re trying to go for, and donning an authentic meteorite ring is exactly what you need to look amazing whist straying from the norm. Meteorite bands naturally come with unique designs that will surely catch people’s attention!
2. One of a kind: Other than being personally handcrafted to your tastes, having meteorite wedding bands that sports the ever so beautiful Widmanstatten pattern makes for a ring that is truly one of a kind.
3. Durability: Because meteorites are primarily iron-nickel meteorites, it’s no surprise that these rings are durable enough to withstand your general fears of wear and tear!
Cons
1. Prone to rusting: Oxidation is just a natural occurrence when it comes to iron-based material, and considering that iron meteorites contain various amounts of iron in their chemical composition, they will most likely be no exception.
2. Finicky maintenance: Unlike other ring with exotic materials, meteorites cannot be cleaned with a simple washing with soap and water. Because it is prone to rusting, you may have to be a little bit more strict in following maintenance and cleaning rules to prevent your ring from taking any damages.
1. Prone to rusting: Oxidation is just a natural occurrence when it comes to iron-based material, and considering that iron meteorites contain various amounts of iron in their chemical composition, they will most likely be no exception.
2. Finicky maintenance: Unlike other ring with exotic materials, meteorites cannot be cleaned with a simple washing with soap and water. Because it is prone to rusting, you may have to be a little bit more strict in following maintenance and cleaning rules to prevent your ring from taking any damages.
How to Clean a Meteorite Ring
Forgetting to follow simple maintenance rules is inevitable, and we understand! As much as you try to remove your ring every time you wash your hands or do the dishes, sometimes it really just flies over your head one too many times and next thing you know, a tiny smidge of rust is beginning to form on your meteorite ring. While going to a jeweler to have your ring cleaned will always be the best course of action, there are definitely DIY alternatives that can get your meteorite ring looking as clean as ever.
One method of cleaning will require coating your ring with a small amount of WD-40 with a soft cloth, and carefully scrubbing the rust away with a toothbrush. Allow your ring to absorb the WD-40 residue from the soft cloth overnight, then apply a small amount of ring wax or gun oil to your ring!
Alternatively, you may also use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab to gently rub the rust thoroughly. Leave your ring to air dry for 20-30 minutes, then carefully apply your ring wax or gun oil. Check out our Meteorite Ring Care post for more information.