How to Identify Meteorite Particles

Carefully select where to search. Meteorites are found all over the world, but are more likely to be found in arid climates or where other meteorites have been found. Strewnfields, such as Holbrook in northern Arizona, are areas where many meteorites have been found from the same fall and are excellent places for meteorite hunting.

Look for rocks that seem out of place. Meteorites are not like the rocks found on Earth. Look for rocks that stand out because of a different color, texture or shape.

Look for a black or dark brown fusion crust. A thin coating of black material forms on the stone as it enters the Earth's atmosphere. While the stone can look like charcoal on the outside, scrape a bit away to reveal lighter stone underneath. The fusion crust is only found on recent meteorites because weather and erosion wear the coating away over time.

Feel the weight of the stone. Meteorites are denser and heavier than other rocks.

Hold a magnet to the stone. Most meteorites will attract a magnet because they typically contain a lot of iron.

Look for rounded depressions about the size of a thumb on the stone. These form on meteorites as they enter the atmosphere and lighter rock surfaces melt away.

Seek professional assistance. Take the rock to a university with a planetary science program or to a licensed mineral lab for further analysis and verification.