meteorite

Polished pallasite meteorite

Pallasite: olivine (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ in an Fe–Ni metal matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark, rounded iron–nickel matrix with embedded bronze-to-olive olivine crystals and metallic pits; Mohs hardness about 6–7 for olivine and 4–5 for iron–nickel, with metallic luster and no consistent cleavage in the metal. The surface appears polished or etched, so natural structure is partly obscured.

Identified September 11, 2026More meteorite →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in the core–mantle boundary region of a differentiated asteroid, likely more than 4.5 billion years ago; fragments reached Earth as meteorites. The image is consistent with a polished pallasite, though laboratory testing is required for confirmation.

Uses & applications

Used as a collectible, display specimen, and occasionally in jewelry or cabochons. Scientific value is high because pallasites preserve material from an asteroid’s interior.

Geological facts

Field identification includes unusually high density, attraction to a strong magnet, visible metal and translucent olivine, and often an etched Widmanstätten pattern on a cut face. Confirmatory tests include nickel analysis and thin-section or compositional examination.

Field identification & locations

Common finds include Esquel (Argentina), Brenham (Kansas, USA), and Seymchan (Russia); genuine specimens are usually sold with documented provenance. Ordinary iron-rich terrestrial rocks can look similar, so provenance and testing are essential.