A meteorite engagement ring is a unique choice for the woman who wants her wedding band to tell a story. Typically, they combine the meteorite inlay with another metal, like gold or titanium.
The natural patterns, known as Widmanstatten patterns, in these nickel-iron meteorites make them eye-catching and unique. As with other unusual rings, meteorite requires some special care to keep it looking its best.
How to Make a Meteorite Ring
While traditional metals like gold and silver are the first materials that come to mind when shopping for a wedding band, there are plenty of other options. One popular choice is meteorite. This rare material is actually a fragment of a comet, asteroid or meteoroid that has fallen to earth. It is incredibly durable and beautiful, and it makes for a stunning ring that is both unique and special.
Meteorite rings are available in a variety of styles and colors. They can be made from pure meteorite or a combination of other metals and stones. Meteorite inlay rings, which feature a piece of meteorite inlaid into another type of ring metal, are particularly popular. The natural pattern of the meteorite is accentuated by the other metal, creating a striking contrast.
It’s important to keep in mind that meteorite is a natural material, and as such, it can rust if exposed to water for extended periods of time. As a result, it’s best to avoid wearing a meteorite ring when doing dishes or cleaning with chemicals. It’s also a good idea to take it off before going swimming in a pool or ocean, as the salt can damage the meteorite and cause it to corrode more quickly.
Many people choose to wear a meteorite engagement ring because they love the way it looks. It has a regal appearance that is very different from other types of jewelry. In addition to being beautiful on its own, meteorite pairs well with other metals and stone. It’s possible to find rings made with a single inlay of meteorite or a mix of other materials, including precious metals like gold and platinum.
A meteorite ring can be difficult to find because it isn’t as common as other rings. However, there are a few telltale signs that you can look for to ensure you’re buying an authentic meteorite ring. The first is to look for a Widmanstatten pattern, which is the distinct pattern that each meteorite has when it is polished. Another is to see if the ring has any inclusions, which are small pieces of minerals inside the meteorite. Finally, it’s always a good idea to test the ring with a magnet; real meteorites are comprised of iron and will stick to magnets.
Meteorite Inlay
Whether your partner is into astronomy or not, a meteorite ring makes a bold statement that no other ring can replicate. This is especially true when the meteorite is used as an inlay in a band. It can be shaped into broad or narrow bands, utilized as the basis or inlay for a wide variety of styles and incorporated into both male and female rings. In fact, a matching pair of meteorite wedding bands can be made that look almost identical, but each has a natural pattern that is unique.
A wide range of metals can be incorporated into a meteorite inlay ring including gold, cobalt chrome and titanium. This ring, for example, features inlays of Gibeon meteorite and rose gold and has been hand-formed in the Mokume Gane style. Mokume gane is an ancient Japanese swordmaking technique that incorporates multiple layers of mixed metals to create a unique textured surface. In this case, the inlays feature meteorite and rose gold separated by titanium to add contrast and depth to the ring.
The meteorite in this ring is from the Gibeon meteorite, which consists of iron-nickel alloy and significant amounts of nickel, cobalt, and phosphorus. It is estimated to be over 4 billion years old and landed in Namibia. The crystalline structure of the meteorite is characterized by distinctive lines called Widmanstatten patterns. These lines vary slightly from ring to ring, but are a key characteristic that helps identify genuine meteorite. In addition, the ring also features inclusions which are dark spots or holes in the meteorite that may be traces of metals that do not occur naturally on Earth.
While many people try to fake meteorite jewelry, there are a few ways to determine if your ring is genuine. The first is to carefully examine the etched pattern on the surface of the meteorite. The second is to check the ring for inclusions and a magnet; real meteorite has a magnetic attraction, but fake meteorites do not.
Because of their high iron content, meteorite rings can rust if not treated properly. Rust can be prevented by coating the ring with wax or oil, avoiding submerging it in water and routinely cleaning and drying the ring with rubbing alcohol.
Meteorite Setting
A meteorite ring is a stunning piece of jewelry that features the fragments of extraterrestrial rock. These rings can be worn for special occasions or as a fashionable alternative to a classic diamond wedding band. The unique pattern and markings of each meteorite make it a one-of-a-kind ring that is out of this world.
Jewelry designers use both whole and polished meteorite pieces to create unique rings. They can also incorporate the rock’s crystalline structure into the ring’s design. Gemstones are often incorporated into the ring as well, since stony meteorites can contain olivine crystals that produce beautiful peridots.
Jewelers sometimes encase small, whole meteorite fragments in sterling silver to form rings. These rings have a silvery appearance and are very popular with those who want to display their fascination with space with a unique and stylish accessory. Usually, the meteorite is polished to highlight its natural, shimmering surface before being mounted in a ring setting.
Meteorites are composed of metals such as nickel and iron. As a result, they are magnetic. This is a simple but unmistakable sign of authenticity that can help buyers distinguish genuine meteorite rings from fake ones.
Since meteorites have a high iron content, they are susceptible to rusting over time. As a result, they require special care to maintain their appearance and avoid corrosion.
Typically, jewelry made from meteorite is coated in wax or oil to prevent moisture from damaging the material. The coating also protects the stone from the elements. Alternatively, the wearer can take their ring to an experienced jeweler who specializes in meteorite jewelry and have them repolish and etch it for an enhanced look.
If you are considering purchasing a meteorite ring, it’s important to understand the different meteorite types and terminology. Having some knowledge of the subject will allow you to spot a genuine piece from an imitation, which can be difficult for people who aren’t familiar with the terminology. It will also help you better appreciate the astronomical significance of your purchase.
Meteorite Maintenance
This striking 18k gold mans ring features a.26 brilliant cut diamond, SI1, G/H, set in carved Gibeon meteorite overlayed on NWA 5974 iron infused Chondrite meteorite. The Gibeon meteorite has been carved to mimic the smokey trail of a meteor while NWA 5974 provides a black starry background. The ring weighs 23.3 grams and is size 12.5.
Most meteorites contain metallic iron, which makes them much heavier than earth rocks of the same size. The metal also looks brighter and more shiny than iron that has been oxidized by eons of weathering and erosion. To test a specimen for meteorite material, try the following tests:
Streak Test: Scratch your sample on a ceramic tile. If it leaves a dark streak, the rock is most likely magnetite. If the streak is reddish, it is hematite. Nickel Test: Run a chemical test for nickel. If the proportion of nickel is within the range for meteorites, it is most likely a meteorite. Window Test: Create a small opening in the sample and look inside. If you see shiny metal flakes, it is most likely a meteorite.