How about crystals from outer space!

Some stones carry a direct connection to the larger story of our solar system. Meteorites are pieces of asteroids or other celestial bodies that survive their journey through Earths atmosphere, while tektites are natural glass formed when a meteorite impact melts and ejects terrestrial material. Together, they offer a fascinating bridge between geology, history, and the vastness of space.�

TL;DR

• Meteorites are space rocks that survive atmospheric entry, while tektites are impact-formed natural glass.
• Both are valued for their unusual origins, forms, and collector appeal.
• Careful sourcing and gentle handling help preserve these distinctive specimens.

What Are Meteorites?

Meteorites are fragments of asteroids, planets, or other celestial bodies that reach Earths surface. Their journey begins in space as meteoroids. When one enters the atmosphere, friction heats its outer surface and creates the bright trail we see as a meteor. Most burn up, but larger pieces can survive and land as meteorites.

Iron meteorites are primarily iron and nickel. They are dense, often magnetic, and may reveal distinctive Widmanst�tten patterns when cut and etched. Stony meteorites are largely made of silicate minerals and are the most common type. Stony-iron meteorites combine metal and silicate material, and pallasites with olivine crystals can be especially striking when backlit.

What Are Tektites?

Tektites are natural glass formed by powerful meteorite impacts. The force of impact melts and ejects material from Earths surface. As the molten droplets cool, they form glass with varied shapes and textures, including flow lines, bubbles, pitting, and aerodynamic forms such as buttons or teardrops.

They are typically black, brown, or green and are found in specific regions known as strewn fields. Their distinctive origin makes them compelling objects for collectors interested in impact geology and the history recorded in Earths surface.

Types of Cosmic Stones

Libyan Desert Glass is a pale yellow to golden impact glass associated with the Sahara. Indochinite is a dark tektite found across parts of Southeast Asia. Australite is known for its distinctive button-like forms, while Colombianite is a rare dark glassy material valued by many collectors. Each offers its own visual character and geological story.

Some meteorites also contain olivine crystals. Pallasite slices are a well-known example, with translucent olivine set in an iron-nickel matrix. These specimens show how varied and beautiful extraterrestrial material can be.

Choosing and Caring for Meteorites and Tektites

Buy from reputable sources that can provide clear provenance, especially for meteorites. Iron meteorites should be kept dry because moisture can lead to rust. Tektites are glass and can scratch or chip, so store them separately from harder stones and clean them with a soft, dry cloth.

Look for natural features such as fusion crust on meteorites, or flow lines and surface texture on tektites. Documentation and a trusted seller are often the best guides when assessing authenticity.

A Wider Cosmic Perspective

Meteorites and tektites invite us to consider the long timelines and immense forces that shape the natural world. Whether displayed as a collector specimen, studied for its geology, or simply appreciated for its unusual form, each piece offers a tangible reminder of Earths place within a much larger universe.

Explore our Fossils & Meteorites collection for distinctive natural specimens with stories written over deep time.