Are meteorite watches and jewellery made from real meteorites?
Many are. Watch dials and jewellery are often made from slices of iron meteorites such as Gibeon or Muonionalusta, but imitations exist, so buy from reputable sellers.
Meteorite iron is popular in jewellery, watch dials, rings and knife blades, because etched slices show a beautiful Widmanstätten pattern.
Common sources. The iron meteorites most often used are Gibeon from Namibia, a fine octahedrite with a delicate pattern, and Muonionalusta from northern Sweden, also a fine octahedrite, found in and around the Arctic. Others include Seymchan from Russia and, for pallasite jewellery, slices with olivine. Moldavite, Libyan Desert Glass and other tektites, which are not meteorites but impact glasses, are also used.
How it is made. Meteoritic iron is sliced thinly, polished and etched to reveal its crystal pattern. Because it rusts, it is usually coated or sealed to protect it, and many makers advise keeping it away from water, sweat and chemicals.
Authenticity. Real meteorite iron shows a natural, irregular Widmanstätten pattern. Imitations exist, made by etching patterned steel or printing images. Reputable makers state the meteorite's name and can describe its source. Be cautious of very cheap items or vague descriptions.
Legal and ethical issues. Gibeon meteorites, for example, are protected in Namibia, and their export is controlled. Material used in jewellery should have been legally acquired, usually from old stocks or legally exported pieces.
Care. Remove meteorite jewellery before washing hands, swimming or exercising. Store it dry. If rust appears, seek advice from the maker.
Wearing meteorite jewellery is a way of carrying a piece of an asteroid's core every day.