Frequently Asked Questions
Can I track my order?
Yes. You will receive an order confirmation by email after placing your order. I will send you a second email once your order ships that contains the courier tracking number.
Can I return an item?
I'm sorry, there are NO RETURNS. These specimens are too rare and delicate. All sales are final.
The nugget I want to buy doesn't have an XRF analysis. Can I get one?
Yes. Please view the Details for each specimen and use the Inquiry tab to send me an email. A single XRF analysis costs $140 per specimen. A single certified XRF analysis costs $300 per specimen. These prices are for the analysis and transportation to and from the lab. I will pay for these charges for specimens priced greater than $5,000.
How did you clean these aluminum and zinc nuggets?
Very carefully! Aluminum and zinc are very reactive and can require many steps of brushing and phosphating to remove 35 million years of gunk. Read more about my cleaning method.
Do aluminum and zinc nuggets tarnish? If so, how do I clean them?
Yes, although I've only noticed tarnish on a few aluminum nuggets. Only use a 100% cotton polishing cloth made for silver and gold to clean these nuggets and use nitrile gloves for protection.
Are native metal nuggets safe to handle?
Yes, but handle them with care just like all mineral specimens (NPS Mineral Safety Information) and use nitrile gloves for protection. Wash your hands after handling them if you don't wear gloves. Don't rub your eyes or lips after handling them. Don't let children play with them or put them in their mouths (CHOKING AND POISON HAZARD)!!! Most of these specimens contain trace amounts of lead (Pb) and/or nickel (Ni) which are carcinogenic. One specimen contains trace amounts (0.042%) of arsenic (As) which is a HIGHLY TOXIC element and is carcinogenic.
What camera did you use to photograph your nuggets?
All mineral specimens are photographed with an Andonstar AD249S-M Digital Microscope. Images of uncleaned native metal nuggets were photographed with an iPhone.