Rock Identifier
Pallasite Meteorite (Pallasite (Stony-Iron Meteorite)) — meteorite
meteorite

Pallasite Meteorite

Pallasite (Stony-Iron Meteorite)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 for olivine crystals, 4-5 for iron-nickel matrix. Color: Golden to yellowish-green translucent olivine (peridot) crystals embedded in a bright silvery nickel-iron metal matrix. Luster: Vitreous in crystals, metallic in matrix.…

Hardness
6
Luster
Vitreous in crystals, metallic in matrix
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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 for olivine crystals, 4-5 for iron-nickel matrix. Color: Golden to yellowish-green translucent olivine (peridot) crystals embedded in a bright silvery nickel-iron metal matrix. Luster: Vitreous in crystals, metallic in matrix. Structure: Intergrowth of large rounded or angular silicate crystals in metallic network.

Formation & geological history

Formed at the core-mantle boundary of differentiated asteroids in the early solar system around 4.5 billion years ago. They were created during violent planetary collisions that shattered the asteroid parents.

Uses & applications

Highly prized by meteorite collectors, researchers studying planetary core formation, and occasionally used in custom jewelry made from extraterrestrial peridot.

Geological facts

Pallasites are among the rarest and most visually striking types of meteorites, representing less than 1% of all known meteorite falls. They contain gem-quality peridot formed in outer space.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct matrix of metallic nickel-iron surrounding gem-like silicate olivine crystals. Typically sliced and polished to display the translucent inner crystals.

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