On November 6, a fireball meteor fell in the Luquan District of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province. The object impacted a wheat field and a factory building, shattering into several pieces. Reports indicate that the largest individual fragment recovered weighs 35 kilograms.
Following the event, meteorite hunters from across the country arrived in the area to search for fragments. Local residents in Beigucheng Village discovered pieces that resemble cement and exhibit magnetic properties. Collectors have identified these as ordinary chondrites, which historically traded at approximately ¥100 per gram.
The legal status of the meteorites remains a subject of discussion. While Chinese law does not explicitly define the ownership of such objects, experts note that meteorites with significant scientific value are considered natural resources and belong to the state under Article 250 of the Civil Code.
If a meteorite lacks scientific value, the principle of first possession may apply, allowing the finder to retain ownership. However, individuals who surrender scientifically valuable specimens to the state are eligible for government rewards. Some samples from the Shijiazhuang event have already been sent to research institutions.
