[meteorite-list] Russian meteorites-- don't take them for granite!

[Adam Hupe]

Hi Peter and List Members,

NWA material has been thoroughly checked out by several museums and does not present any problem whatsoever.  The Royal Ontario Museum did their homework and now has a world class collection of NWA material because of it, while other museums have missed out on outstanding examples.  The Moroccan consulate has been contacted several times and has always given the green light on meteorites. A conference was held in Casablanca and a consensuses was taken about Moroccan export laws in regards to meteorites. The consensus was that there are no laws that would prevent export. 

In an ever restrictive market, NWA is one of the last remaining high points where meteorites can be legally exported.  The ongoing press that reports highly inflated prices could change all of this so be careful when communicating with them.   I think it best to concentrate on the scientific value rather than the treasure value. If countries perceive there is great monetary value attached to meteorites, it won't be long before they are off limits.  


Best Regards,

Adam