What's That Rock?Stony meteorite
Also called: chondrite
The most common kind of meteorite. It is a dense rock with a thin dark crust and tiny metal flecks inside.
How to identify Stony meteorite
- Thin black crust (fusion crust) and gray interior
- Tiny metal flecks visible when broken
- Heavier than most rocks and weakly magnetic
Often confused with
- Terrestrial rocks
- Dark basalt
- Iron slag
- Hematite
Real or fake?
- Most suspected meteorites are ordinary rocks; a real one has metal flecks and a thin, glassy crust
- Only an expert or university lab can confirm
Is Stony meteorite valuable?
Value depends on type, size and rarity; experts only.
Typical retail prices
Piece$0.5–5per gram
Priced per gram. Lunar and Martian meteorites cost far more.
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Type: rare types (lunar, Martian) cost hundreds of times more than ordinary chondrites
- Fusion crust: a complete, undamaged crust adds value; a cut slice shows the interior
- Authenticity: most suspected meteorites are ordinary rocks; a lab classification or reputable dealer certificate matters
- Weight: priced per gram; large complete masses cost thousands
Uses
- Collecting and research
Care
Rusts in damp air. Store dry.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026