Product classification
HS code for Mineral specimens: 9705.29
Collections and collectors' pieces, of zoological, botanical, mineralogical, anatomical or palaeontological interest, other than human species, extinct or endangered species and parts thereof.
Classification of mineral specimens under HS 9705.29
Mineral specimens are classified under HS code 9705.29 because they are recognized as collectors' pieces of mineralogical interest rather than industrial raw materials. This classification applies when the specimens are intended for display, scientific study, or inclusion in a private or public collection. These items are typically characterized by their rarity, aesthetic appeal, or geological significance, such as unique crystal formations or specific chemical compositions. Unlike bulk minerals used in manufacturing or construction, which fall under Chapter 25, these specimens are treated as items of cultural or scientific value. The Harmonized System places them in Chapter 97, which covers works of art and collectors' pieces, specifically under the sub-heading for mineralogical interest that does not involve extinct or endangered species.
- Covers
- Individual crystal clusters for display
- Geological samples for museum archives
- Rare mineral specimens for private collectors
- Polished mineral sections for scientific study
- Educational mineral sets for universities
- Also under 9705.29
- Butterfly collections
- geological core samples
- mounted deer heads
- fossilized ammonites
- herbarium sheets
- seashell collections
- meteorite fragments
Codes often confused with 9705.29
Common mistake. Mineral specimens are frequently misclassified under various headings in Chapter 25, such as 2501 through 2530, which cover earth, stone, and ores in their raw or bulk state. The primary distinction lies in the intent and processing; if a mineral is imported for its chemical properties or industrial utility, it belongs in Chapter 25. However, if it is imported for its value as a unique specimen, it belongs in 9705.29. Additionally, specimens that have been heavily worked into jewelry or decorative household items may be classified under 7116 (articles of precious or semi-precious stones) or 6802 (worked monumental stone).
Top exporters and importers of HS 970529 (the code used for mineral specimens), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 970529 (the code used for mineral specimens) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 29% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 22% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 970529, not only mineral specimens.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $32M 29% of world exports
- 2 South Africa $29M 27% of world exports
- 3 Namibia $4.8M 4.4% of world exports
World total: $109M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $16M 22% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$11M 16% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Germany $5.9M 8.3% of world imports
World total: $71M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for mineral specimens
Brazil classifies mineral specimens under NCM 9705.29.00: HS 9705.29 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about mineral specimens
What is the HS code for Mineral specimens?
The HS code for Mineral specimens is 970529 (Collections and collectors' pieces; of zoological, botanical, mineralogical, anatomical or palaeontological interest, other than human species, extinct or endangered species and parts thereof). The HS code for mineral specimens intended for collections is 9705.29.
How do I classify Mineral specimens for customs?
Mineral specimens is classified under HS code 970529 — Collections and collectors' pieces; of zoological, botanical, mineralogical, anatomical or palaeontological interest, other than human species, extinct or endangered species and parts thereof. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code apply to minerals used for jewelry?
No, if the mineral has been cut, polished, and set for use in jewelry, it is classified under Chapter 71. HS code 9705.29 is strictly for collectors' pieces of mineralogical interest.
Which countries are the top exporters of mineral specimens (HS 970529)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 970529 (the code used for mineral specimens) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($32M, 29% of world exports), South Africa ($29M) and Namibia ($4.8M). World exports came to about $109M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of mineral specimens (HS 970529)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 970529 (the code used for mineral specimens) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($16M, 22% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $11M) and Germany ($5.9M). World imports came to about $71M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Mineral specimens the same in all countries?
The base HS code 970529 for Mineral specimens is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for mineral specimens in Brazil?
In Brazil, mineral specimens (HS 970529) is classified under NCM 9705.29.00.