Who can identify a possible meteorite for me?
Natural history museums, university geology or planetary science departments and national geological surveys are the best places to ask. Start by emailing clear photographs with a scale, the weight and where you found it.
Confirming a meteorite properly takes training and equipment, so it is worth going to people who do it regularly. Natural history museums with mineral or meteorite collections are an excellent first stop; many have curators who answer public enquiries. University departments of geology, earth sciences or planetary science may help, especially if they have meteorite researchers. In some countries, the national geological survey also handles rock identification.
Local rock and mineral clubs can be useful too. Their members often recognise common meteorwrongs such as slag, iron ore and flint at a glance, which can save you a long wait. Some reputable meteorite dealers will give an informal opinion, but remember that only a qualified scientist can make an official classification.
Make it easy for the expert. Send sharp, well-lit photographs from several angles, with a ruler or coin for scale, and include any broken face. Give the weight and size, say whether it attracts a magnet, and describe exactly where and when you found it. Mention any fireball seen nearby, because a fresh fall is urgent. Don't post the stone unannounced, and wait to be asked before sending the real thing.
Be patient and prepared for a "no". Museums receive a great many enquiries, and the vast majority are Earth rocks. If your stone does look promising, the next step is laboratory work: scientists examine a thin slice under a microscope and analyse its minerals. For an official name, part of the meteorite must be lodged in a recognised collection as a type specimen. Until you know, avoid cutting, heating or chemical tests, all of which can harm the stone or you.