The Lab
The Lab
Skill & Technique
The finest in custom cutting, polishing, and etching services since 1974.
With over thirty years hands on experience Marlin is a true master of his craft. While other start up meteorite cutters are making their mistakes and learning the business as they go, Marlin has already made his mistakes and is out of the learning curve. Marlin doesn't struggle with different aspects of the job he says he will do for you, he already knows how to do it correctly the first time.
As testament to his mastery of the trade Marlin is becoming the go to guy for correcting a lot of the mistakes that are made by others in the industry. Never cutting corners to save time or having to experiment with your precious samples. If there was a need, it has already been met; and the problem was solved and resolved until Marlin had the best solution.
Marlin knows the reality of the cut and can tell you the consequences of certain strategies and actions, as well as offer solutions that minimize waste materials and achieve customer goals. What kind of quality do you expect?
Tools Of The Trade
A One Of A Kind Collection Of Precision & Custom Proprietary Tools
The Montana Meteorite Laboratory (MML) uses State-of-the-Art equipment and proprietary techniques to create the finest in prepared meteorites. MML has sliced and prepared hundreds of meteorites including many different classes of Irons and Stony-irons, as well as large Pallasites. We have extensive experience preparing rare Achondrites and Chondrites as well.
The usage cases and custom techniques developed over the years have resulted in the custom fabrication and application many 'unique' tools; some of which are produced specifically for the each sample, others selected based on a number of material and sample criteria. Creativity, Innovation and Time have all culminated in an optimal environment for Marlin to ply his trade very effectively.
While others grapple with problems MML is capable of offering creative and innovative solutions. Marlin knows how to do the job correctly.
Space Junk...
Junk or Jewel...
Space Junk...
Junk or Jewel...
SO YOU THINK YOU FOUND A METEORITE
We have lots of contacts from folks that are trying to identify a potential meteorite they have come across. We want to help, but the simple truth is we don't have time to verify meteorite finds, nor would it mean anything at all to the scientific or collector communities. Meteorites must be verified and submitted to the Meteoritical Society before they recognized or have any value. MML specializes in the cutting, etching, setting and other preparation and preservation techniques; that is all. This is our role in the culture and it is usually under heavy demand, so this is what we choose to concentrate on.
We put together a few of our favorite references with some great advice on how to identify meteorites in the field, some tests you can do at home and full overviews of the process of scientific verification and how to approach this process.
STEVE SPANGLER - SCIENCE
A recent expert article posted here gives some great references as well as some common sense steps to got through during the identification process.
ASU
Tons of resources and great advice in regard to identification. This is one of the leading programs in the nation, you can find out just about anything man knows about meteorites here if you research long enough.
meteorite-identification.com
meteorite-identification.com
Some great practical advice and a few home test you can do to start finding out what you really have on your hands. These tips and tests can save you lots of time and expense so check them out early in the process.
Meteorite Cutting & Preparations
Custom Meteorite Cutting, Polishing & Etching Services
Meteorite Cutting & Preparations
Custom Meteorite Cutting, Polishing & Etching Services
MML uses a variety of techniques and custom tools and fasteners in it's preparation, cutting and preservation processes. We offer innovative and custom techniques that have been proven time and time again. There have been hundreds of samples pass through MML and literally thousands of samples processed. From planning and optimization to etching and preservation Montana Meteorite Lab has the experience it takes to make the cut.
Consultations and eventually developing a relationship with the samples and their owners is a necessary step in the process. When we become comfortable with each other and what needs to be done the we can proceed with the work. Tell us your plan and ask us any questions you may have about the processes and we can begin to form a plan for your samples.