Identifying Sericho vs. Seymchan Pallasite Meteorites
A Beginner’s Guide for Collectors: Beauty, Structure & Value
Introduction: Why It Matters
Pallasite meteorites are among the rarest and most stunning types of meteorites, composed of nickel-iron matrix embedded with olivine (peridot) crystals. Two popular collectible types are:
- Sericho (Kenya, 2016)
- Seymchan (Russia, 1967)
Due to their visual similarity and wide market availability, many new collectors find them hard to distinguish. This guide will help you spot real differences, avoid mislabeling, and understand pricing.
Sericho Vs Seymchan
1. Basic Comparison Table
| Feature | Sericho (Kenya) | Seymchan (Russia) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Pallasite (Stony-Iron) | Pallasite (Stony-Iron / Iron) |
| Discovered | 2016, Isiolo County, Kenya | 1967, Magadan, Russia |
| Classification | Main Group Pallasite | Main Group Pallasite |
| Olivine Quality | Large, dark, cracked | Small-medium, clear, gemmy |
| Etching Pattern | Often absent | Strong Widmanstätten pattern |
| Price (per gram) | ~$2–4.5 USD | ~$7–15 USD |
2. Real Meteorite For Sale-Sericho Pallasite
🔶 Sericho Pallasite Slice –40*60mm Polished Display Piece
- Origin: Kenya
- Features: Large golden-brown olivine crystals, natural rusting on edges
- Etching: None
- Price: $140 USD
- Includes Certificate of Authenticity ✔️
Great for beginner collectors. Affordable, vibrant, but needs proper care due to rust sensitivity.
3. Visual & Structural Differences
🟠 Olivine Crystals
| Feature | Sericho | Seymchan |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Brownish to golden-orange | Yellow-green to golden |
| Clarity | Cloudy, fractured | Often glassy, gem-grade |
| Location | Dense, touching veins | Spaced, "floating" in metal |
| Shape | Irregular, rounded | Angular, polygonal |
🔍 Tip: If the olivine looks like muddy amber, it's likely Sericho. If it's clear and jewel-like, it’s probably Seymchan.
Sericho Large Slice
⚙️ Nickel-Iron Matrix & Etching Patterns
| Feature | Sericho | Seymchan |
|---|---|---|
| Etchability | Inconsistent or weak | Strong, sharp patterns |
| Stability | Lower, prone to rust | More stable, long-lasting |
| Visual Texture | Bright, silvery, sometimes oxidized | Grey-silver, clean lines |
4. Real Meteorite For Sale – Seymchan Pallasite Slice
🟢 Seymchan Pallasite Slice – 30*40mm Etched Display Specimen
- Origin: Russia
- Features: Clear etched Widmanstätten pattern, embedded olivine
- Etching: Yes (acid-etched on iron surface)
- Price: 255$ USD
- Includes IMCA-backed Certificate ✔️
Ideal for display or investment. Stable structure, low maintenance, and collector-preferred.
Seymchan Pallasite Slice
5. Rust Resistance & Preservation
| Feature | Sericho | Seymchan |
|---|---|---|
| Rust Risk | High | Low |
| Requires Oiling | Yes | Optional |
| Humidity Sensitive | Extremely | Moderately |
🧴 Always store pallasites with silica gel, in airtight containers, and avoid high humidity.
6. Summary: What to Look For
| Category | Sericho | Seymchan |
|---|---|---|
| Olivine Appearance | Large, cloudy, cracked | Clear, gem-like, smaller |
| Metal Pattern | Weak or no etching | Strong Widmanstätten |
| Rust Resistance | Low | High |
| Market Price | Lower | Higher |
| Ideal For | New collectors, jewelry makers | Long-term collectors, investors |
7. Final Buying Tips
✅ Always request:
- A Certificate of Authenticity
- The exact location and classification
- A clear macro photo of olivine crystals and a metal matrix
- Seller credentials (check IMCA, Meteorite Society Member, or Meteoritical Bulletin listings)
Want to Learn More?
- 🔗 Meteoritical Society Database
- 📘 Recommended Reading: Rocks from Space by O. Richard Norton
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