Meteorites are solid pieces of debris that originate from outer space and survive passing through the atmosphere of a planet or moon in order to reach the surface. Traditionally, meteorites are divided into three major categories or types: stony (containing rock-forming silicate minerals), iron (containing nearly solid nickel-iron metal), and stony-iron (around 50% rock and 50% iron-nickel). Energetically, meteorites are said to stimulate the earth star, root, solar plexus, third eye, crown, and soul star chakras, as well as to balance and align the energetic fields of the body. Meteorites have a healing effect on the physical body; they can increase one's overall strength and stamina, and strengthen the blood and circulatory system as well. Said to increase self-confidence and motivation, these celestial crystals are wonderful tools for stimulating inner vision and spiritual awakening, as well as helping one attune to interdimensional and extraterrestrial communication. Meteorites are a beautiful gift from the heavens - able to both expand human consciousness and to provide a tangible connection to the mysterious energies of other worlds.
⚡ Quick Answer
Meteorites are pieces of asteroid or planetary debris that survive the fall through the atmosphere and reach the ground. They fall into three main families — iron, stony, and stony-iron (which includes the gem-bearing pallasites). Genuine meteorites are identified by their density, magnetism, dark fusion crust, and, in cut irons, the crosshatched Widmanstätten pattern. Scroll down for the main types, how they are identified, and notable examples in our collection.
The Main Types of Meteorites
Collectors generally sort meteorites into three families. Iron meteorites are dense, heavy pieces of nearly solid nickel-iron that formed in the cores of ancient asteroids; when cut and etched they often reveal the striking crosshatched Widmanstätten pattern found nowhere on Earth. Stony meteorites are the most common overall and are made largely of rock-forming silicate minerals, sometimes dotted with tiny spheres called chondrules. Stony-iron meteorites are the rarest of the three; the most prized are pallasites, in which gem-like olivine crystals are suspended in a shining metal matrix.
How Meteorites Are Identified
Because meteorites can resemble ordinary rocks, a few clues help confirm the real thing. Most are unusually dense and heavy for their size, and iron-rich specimens are strongly attracted to a magnet. Freshly fallen stones carry a dark, glassy fusion crust formed as the surface melted during entry, and many contain metallic flecks of nickel-iron. Cut and polished iron meteorites can display the Widmanstätten pattern, a geometric lattice that takes millions of years of slow cooling in space to form and cannot be reproduced on Earth.
Notable Meteorites at Rare Earth Gallery
Our collection features specimens from some of the world's most celebrated falls and finds. These include the ancient Swedish iron of the Muonionalusta meteorite, the massive South American Campo del Cielo meteorite, and the fine Namibian iron of the Gibeon fall. Among the stony-irons, the olivine-studded Seymchan meteorite and other pallasite meteorites are especially prized, while the dramatic Sikhote-Alin meteorite is famous for its thumbprinted, sculpted shapes. We also carry meteorite jewelry and meteorite-blade knives that let you keep a piece of space close at hand.
Crystal healing practices may be used as a complementary part of your personal wellness journey. They are not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult an appropriate healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or health concern.
Shop Our Genuine Meteorite Collection
Since 2013, Rare Earth Gallery has been Arizona's most celebrated destination for natural art. Our award-winning Cave Creek gallery is home to tens of thousands of hand-selected crystals, minerals, meteorites, fossils, onyx sculptures, gemstone jewelry, and natural stone fountains — each piece chosen because nothing quite like it exists anywhere else. Visit the gallery or shop our website.
