But only a tiny fraction of the meteorites which fall to earth today are carbonaceous chondrites.

ECONOMIST: Paleoforensic science

It is from a class known as the carbonaceous chondrites - primitive, carbon-rich meteorites that contain organic compounds such as amino acids.

BBC: Rare space rock in British lab

Carbonaceous chondrites contain tiny jewels - presolar diamonds and sapphires.

BBC: Rare space rock in British lab