Where is Chondrite Meteorite found?
Chondrite
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Open the appChondrite Meteorite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Chondrite Meteorite
Antarctica
Large numbers of meteorites are found on the blue ice fields of Antarctica, where glacial movement concentrates them and the dry, cold conditions preserve them well.
Sahara Desert
The vast, arid plains of the Sahara Desert are excellent meteorite hunting grounds, as the dark meteorites stand out against the light-colored sand and are well-preserved in the dry climate.
Atacama Desert, Chile
Similar to the Sahara, the extreme aridity of the Atacama Desert leads to excellent preservation and accumulation of meteorites.
Nullarbor Plain, Australia
Another large, arid region where meteorites are found due to good preservation and visibility.
Collecting tips
- Magnetism Test. Most chondrites contain iron-nickel metal and are therefore attracted to a strong magnet. This is a primary distinguishing feature from most terrestrial rocks.
- Density Test. Chondrites are generally denser than common terrestrial rocks of similar size due to their metallic content. They will feel 'heavier' than expected.
- Fusion Crust. Freshly fallen meteorites often have a thin, dark, glassy fusion crust formed by melting during atmospheric entry. This crust may be abraded or weathered on older finds.
- Thumbprint-like Indentations (Regmaglypts). Some meteorites, particularly larger ones, may exhibit shallow, thumbprint-like indentations on their surface, formed by ablation during atmospheric passage.
- Chondrules (Internal Feature). If a small piece is broken off or a surface is polished, the presence of small, spherical chondrules is diagnostic of a chondrite. A magnifying glass or hand lens is often needed.
- Streak Test (Caution). While not always definitive, a fresh surface of a chondrite will typically produce a grey or no streak on unglazed porcelain, unlike hematite (red-brown streak) or magnetite (black streak).
- Avoid Contamination. When collecting, handle meteorites as little as possible and store them in clean, dry, inert containers (e.g., zip-lock bags) to prevent terrestrial contamination and weathering.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Dark grey to black, often rusty brown
- Luster:
- Dull to sub-metallic
- Streak:
- Grey or no streak
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