How Much Is a Meteorite Worth Per Gram?

The value of a meteorite per gram is a complex question with no single answer, as prices can vary dramatically based on numerous characteristics. These celestial objects, remnants of asteroids, comets, or even planets, travel through space as meteoroids before entering Earth’s atmosphere. When a meteoroid burns up upon atmospheric entry, it creates a bright streak in the sky known as a meteor. Should any part of this object survive the fiery descent and reach the ground, it is then classified as a meteorite, distinguished by its extraterrestrial origin and unique properties.

The Wide Range of Meteorite Values

The per-gram value of meteorites spans an astonishing range, from less than a dollar to thousands of dollars. For instance, common unclassified stony meteorites, particularly ordinary chondrites found in abundance, might sell for as little as $0.50 to $2 per gram. In stark contrast, extremely rare specimens, such as those originating from the Moon or Mars, can command prices exceeding $1,000 to $3,000 per gram. This vast difference underscores that a meteorite’s worth is not simply determined by its weight, but by a combination of factors.

Meteorite Classification and Rarity

A primary determinant of a meteorite’s value is its classification and inherent rarity, dictating its general price tier. Meteorites are broadly categorized into three main types: stony, iron, and stony-iron. Stony meteorites, which are the most common, include ordinary chondrites, often available for $2 to $15 per gram, and carbonaceous chondrites, which can fetch around $8 to $40 per gram or more for rare finds. Achondrites, another type of stony meteorite, are rarer and can start at $10 to $12 per gram, with some unique types reaching higher values.

Iron meteorites, composed primarily of iron and nickel, are generally more valuable than common stony meteorites, often ranging from $1 to $10 per gram, though some premium specimens can reach $50 per gram. The Russian Sikhote-Alin iron meteorite, known for its sculptural qualities, might sell for $2 to $3 per gram for a premium specimen. Stony-iron meteorites, such as pallasites, are particularly prized for their aesthetic appeal, featuring olivine crystals embedded in a metallic matrix. These can range from $20 to $100 per gram, with exceptional slices reaching higher prices.

Lunar and Martian meteorites represent the pinnacle of rarity and value due to their extraterrestrial planetary origins. These specimens are exceptionally scarce, comprising less than 0.5% of all classified meteorites. Their unique scientific importance and limited supply drive their prices significantly higher, often starting from hundreds of dollars and reaching thousands per gram.

Other Factors Influencing Value

Beyond classification, several other elements significantly influence a meteorite’s per-gram value. The provenance and documentation of a meteorite play a substantial role. Meteorites that are “witnessed falls”—meaning their descent through the atmosphere was observed and documented—typically command higher prices than “finds” discovered later by chance. For example, pieces of the Peekskill meteorite, which famously struck a car in 1992, can sell for $100 to $200 per gram due to its remarkable story, despite being a common type of chondrite.

The condition and preservation of a meteorite also impact its worth. Specimens with a well-preserved fusion crust—the thin, glassy layer formed by melting during atmospheric entry—or distinct regmaglypts, which are thumbprint-like depressions, are more desirable. Minimal weathering and alteration contribute to a higher value, as these indicate better preservation of the meteorite’s original state. A perfectly preserved stone can be worth significantly more than a weathered or damaged one.

Aesthetic appeal can further enhance a meteorite’s value, particularly for collectors. Meteorites with unique shapes, striking colors, or visually appealing internal structures, such as the translucent olivine crystals in cut and polished pallasites, are highly prized. The sculptural qualities of some iron meteorites, formed by atmospheric ablation, also contribute to their desirability.

Scientific significance is another important factor; meteorites that offer unique insights into the formation of the solar system or contain rare materials are highly valued by researchers. The process of a meteorite being analyzed and officially classified by academic institutions can add commercial value by establishing its authenticity and scientific importance. Size and weight also play a role, though not always straightforwardly; while larger specimens of common types might offer better overall value, very small fragments of extremely rare meteorites can still command very high per-gram prices.

Finally, market demand and availability influence prices. Like any collectible, the supply of and collector interest in a particular meteorite type can cause price fluctuations. For example, while lunar meteorites were once exceptionally expensive, increased finds and classification have led to some price adjustments, though they remain highly valued. Conversely, export restrictions on certain common types, like Campo del Cielo, can lead to an increase in their per-gram price.

Identifying a Real Meteorite

Distinguishing a genuine meteorite from a “meteorwrong”—a terrestrial rock often mistaken for a meteorite—requires careful observation of several characteristics. Most meteorites, particularly iron and stony types, contain significant amounts of iron-nickel metal, making them magnetic. A simple test with a strong magnet can indicate if a rock is potentially a meteorite, as most will attract a magnet.

Meteorites are also generally denser than common Earth rocks due to their metallic content. While the density of ordinary Earth rocks is typically around 2.5 to 3.0 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³), iron meteorites can range from 7 to 8 g/cm³, and stony meteorites from 3.0 to 3.7 g/cm³. A fusion crust, a thin, dark, often dull or glassy coating, is a common feature on recently fallen meteorites. Many stony meteorites also contain chondrules, which are tiny, millimeter-sized spherical grains visible in a broken or cut surface; definitive identification often requires expert analysis.