Mineral/Extraterrestrial Rock

Pallasite Meteorite

Pallasite (Stony-iron meteorite; Fe-Ni alloy with (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 olivine)

Hardness: 6.5-7 (olivine) / 4-5 (metal matrix); Color: Dark brown/black fusion crust with amber-yellow to green translucent crystals; Luster: Metallic matrix with vitreous crystals; Structure: Orthorhombic crystals in an isometric metal matrix; Specific Gravity: Approx 4.8 - 7.5.

Hardness: 6
Luster: Metallic matrix with vitreous crystals

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral/extraterrestrial rock →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed at the core-mantle boundary of differentiated asteroids approximately 4.5 billion years ago. They are ejected during cataclysmic collisions and travel through space before landing on Earth.

Uses & applications

Primarily for scientific research to understand early solar system formation, high-end gemstone jewelry (specifically Peridot from space), and as a highly prized item for mineral collectors and museums.

Geological facts

Pallasites are among the rarest meteorites, representing only about 1% of all known meteorite falls. The Fukang meteorite is one of the most famous and beautiful examples, appearing like a stained-glass window when sliced.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the presence of translucent yellow-green olivine crystals embedded in a magnetic, nickel-iron metal matrix. In the field, look for a dark, weathered exterior (fusion crust) and use a high-strength magnet. Common locations include dry areas like the Atacama Desert or the Great Plains (Brenham, Kansas).

Other mineral/extraterrestrial rock specimens

See all

Pallasite Meteorite

Pallasite (Iron-Nickel Matrix with Olivine/Peridot inclusions)

Mineral / Extraterrestrial Rock

Peridotite (Dunite)

Peridotite (mostly Olivine: (Mg,Fe)2SiO4)

igneous

Olivine in Basalt (Peridotite Xenolith)

Forsterite-rich Olivine (Mg2SiO4) in Aphanitic Basalt

igneous

Meteorite (Chondrite)

Stony Meteorite (Ordinary Chondrite)

igneous

Tektite (likely Australite)

Tektite (no specific chemical formula as it's a natural glass of variable composition, mostly SiO2, Al2O3, FeO, MgO, CaO, K2O, Na2O, TiO2)

Mineral (specifically a mineraloid)

Olivine (Peridot)

Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg,Fe)2SiO4

Mineral