Rock Identifier
Pallasite Meteorite (likely Imilac or Brenham) (Stony-Iron Meteorite (Pallasite)) — mineral
mineral

Pallasite Meteorite (likely Imilac or Brenham)

Stony-Iron Meteorite (Pallasite)

Hardness: 5-5.5 (olivine) to 4-5 (iron-nickel); Color: Golden-yellow to green crystals in a silver-grey metallic matrix; Luster: Glassy (olivine) and Metallic (metal); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic olivine in an isometric iron matrix; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 4.5-5.0

Hardness
5-5
Luster
Glassy (olivine) and Metallic (metal)
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-5.5 (olivine) to 4-5 (iron-nickel); Color: Golden-yellow to green crystals in a silver-grey metallic matrix; Luster: Glassy (olivine) and Metallic (metal); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic olivine in an isometric iron matrix; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 4.5-5.0

Formation & geological history

Formed at the core-mantle boundary of a differentiated asteroid about 4.5 billion years ago. The metal and silicate segments solidified together under high pressure before the parent body was shattered by a collision.

Uses & applications

Scientific research, museum display, high-end jewelry, and private collecting. Pallasites are considered the most beautiful meteorites.

Geological facts

Pallasites are incredibly rare, representing less than 1% of all known meteorites. They contain gem-quality olivine crystals, known as peridot when found on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the presence of translucent green/yellow crystals embedded in a solid iron-nickel matrix. Often found in known fall zones (strewn fields). Authenticity is confirmed via X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or acid etching to show the Widmanst$дtten pattern in the metal.