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·Genuine Meteorite
Nantan Meteorite Fragment
- Genuine Meteorite
- Approx. 4.5 billion years
- Ships worldwide
£9.99
● In stock — dispatched within 2 working days
An authentic iron-nickel meteorite fragment from the historic 1516 Nantan fall. A remarkable 4.5 billion-year-old relic of the early solar system. These fragments are typically 0.2-0.5cm thick and up to 2cm wide and tall.
Gift Suitable
Boxed, perfect as an unusual starter specimen for new collectors or those interested in the formation of the earth
Only 3 left in stock
Specimen Record
DTF-E9F3D571Representative image
Photographs show a typical example. Your item will be similar but not identical.
- Classification
- Iron-Nickel Meteorite (IAB-MG)
- Identification confidence
- Not recorded
- Age
- Approx. 4.5 billion years
- Fall / find locality
- Nantan, Guangxi, China
- Dimensions
- Not recorded
- Weight
- Not recorded
Condition & Treatment
- Repair
- Not recorded
- Restoration
- Not recorded
- Stabilisation
- Not recorded
- Polishing
- Not recorded
- Composite
- Not recorded
"Not recorded" means we hold no verified record for that detail — it is not a claim either way.
Curator Note
The Nantan fall is historically significant as it was documented during the Ming Dynasty, with records describing 'stars falling like rain'. Because these fragments were left in the humid environment of Southern China for centuries before recovery, they possess a distinct weathered patina that collectors find highly desirable.
At a Glance
Type
Genuine iron meteorite
Display
Excellent — best displayed in a small case or on a magnetic stand.
Gift suitable
Yes
About This Meteorite
An authentic fragment of the Nantan meteorite, a significant iron-nickel fall recorded in Chinese history. These fragments originate from a massive meteorite that disintegrated upon entering Earth's atmosphere, scattering over a wide area in Guangxi Province. Each piece exhibits the characteristic irregular, sculpted surfaces typical of an iron-nickel meteorite, offering a direct connection to the birth of our planetary system.
Unlike terrestrial rocks, this material is a remnant of a protoplanetary core that never formed into a planet. When polished or etched, these meteorites often reveal unique crystalline structures, though in their raw form, they possess a rugged, celestial gravitas. They are heavy for their size, a testament to their high metallic content, and serve as extraordinary conversation pieces for any collection.
Formation & Preservation
The Nantan meteorite is classified as an IAB-MG iron meteorite. It formed billions of years ago through the slow cooling of molten metal within the core of a large asteroid. As the asteroid suffered cataclysmic collisions, fragments were ejected into space, eventually crossing Earth's orbit and falling as a shower of fireballs in 1516.
What Makes This Specimen Special
The Nantan fall is historically significant as it was documented during the Ming Dynasty, with records describing 'stars falling like rain'. Because these fragments were left in the humid environment of Southern China for centuries before recovery, they possess a distinct weathered patina that collectors find highly desirable.
Authenticity & Sourcing
Real vs Replica
- This is a genuine iron meteorite — not a replica unless clearly stated. Clearly described and honestly presented.
- You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown — see Natural Variation below.
Ethical Sourcing
- Sourced from established suppliers and known commercial sites. We do not buy from localities we know to be protected, scientifically restricted, or subject to export controls. Origin and sourcing information is shared where known.
- ✓We will not knowingly handle specimens removed in breach of any country's heritage or export laws.
Origin & Natural Variation
Stated origin (Nantan, Guangxi, China) and formation (Asteroid Belt origin) are based on supplier information and available geological references. Identification can vary in certainty — especially for fragments — so where exact locality cannot be independently verified, we describe the strewn field or classification rather than a single find site.
Meteorites are natural objects. Expect minor variation in colour, surface texture, and oxidation or cut face. Treatment information is shown under Condition & Treatment where it is recorded. “Not recorded” means we hold no verified record for that detail; it is not a claim that no treatment occurred.
Read our full authenticity & honest descriptions policy or the authenticity & sourcing clause in our terms.
Shipping, Returns & Packaging
• UK shipping: Free on orders of £50 or more. Standard £4.95 (Royal Mail Tracked 48, typically 2–3 working days after dispatch).
• International: Available worldwide. Rates at checkout.
• Packaging: Individually wrapped, cushioned, and boxed. Fragile specimens receive extra protection.
• Dispatch: Within 2 working days (framed, mounted, or made-to-order pieces take 1 additional working day).
• Returns: 30-day returns. Contact us first. Item must be in original condition.