Find out how to find out if it's a meteorite

 If you have found a suspected meteorite and want to know if it is genuine, here are some procedures you may take.

How to find out if a rock you picked up on the street is a meteorite

Seek out a fusion crust.

A fusion crust is a thin, dark, and sometimes crusty outer coating formed by meteorites. As the meteorite's surface melts and ablates during its transit through the Earth's atmosphere, this crust forms. Examine the exterior of your specimen to see if it is dark, smooth, or somewhat roughened.

Look for regmaglypts.

Regmaglypts are shallow, thumb-like impressions found on the surface of numerous meteorites. They are sometimes known as thumbprints or flutes. They are generated during atmospheric entry via the ablation process. Examine the surface of your specimen for any depressions or thumbprint-like features.

Calculate the density

Meteorites are generally denser than most Earthly rocks. The density of your specimen can be determined by comparing its weight to its volume. Its density may be indicated if it feels substantially heavier than typical rocks of equal size.

Keep an eye out for metallic content.

Metallic elements such as iron and nickel can be found in many meteorites. To test for magnetic characteristics, use a powerful magnet. If your specimen is magnetically attracted, it may include metallic minerals. However, because not all meteorites are magnetic, the lack of a magnetic reaction does not always rule out the meteorite's validity.

Perform a streak test

A streak test can be used to identify the color of the powdery material created when the specimen is scratched against a ceramic tile or an unglazed porcelain plate. Most meteorites will leave a distinctive dark brown to black streak.

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Perform an internal visual inspection.

Break off a little portion of your specimen to inspect its innards if feasible. Meteorites frequently display a particular pattern known as the Widmanstätten pattern. When certain meteorites are etched with acid, a complex crisscross structure of nickel-iron crystals is revealed.

Seek expert advice.

While the preceding processes can provide preliminary hints, it is critical to contact with meteorology professionals for a definitive identification. Contact a nearby university, museum, or known meteorite expert to inspect your specimen and provide a professional appraisal.

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