Pallasite Meteorite (Olivine in Iron-Nickel Matrix)
Pallasite Meteorite · Meteoritic Material
Crystal System
Orthorhombic (for olivine) and Cubic (for kamacite/taenite iron matrix)
Mineral Group
Meteoritic Material / Silicates and Native Elements
Chemical Formula
(Mg,Fe)2SiO4 (Olivine) embedded in Fe-Ni (Iron-Nickel metal)
Formation Process
Formed at the core-mantle boundary of differentiated asteroids that were subsequently shattered by violent impacts in early solar system history
About This Crystal
This specimen displays a striking combination of translucent to transparent bright yellowish-green olivine (peridot) crystals embedded within a dark, weathered iron-nickel metal matrix. The contrast between the crystalline silicate inclusions and the metallic groundmass creates a highly distinctive visual appearance typical of pallasite meteorites.
Physical Characteristics
Body color ranges from bright yellowish-green to dark olive green for the silicate portions, and dark brown to metallic gray/black for the oxidized iron-nickel matrix. Streak is white for olivine and metallic gray for the metal. Fracture is conchoidal in olivine and hackly in the metal. Specific gravity is high, typically around 4.5 to 8.0 depending on the metal-to-olivine ratio.
Optical Properties
Olivine is optically positive with biaxial refraction. Refractive index ranges from approximately 1.635 to 1.772 with moderate birefringence. The metal portion is opaque with a metallic luster.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Extraterrestrial origin, with notable finds in Esquel (Argentina), Imilac (Chile), and Brenham (Kansas, USA)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is roughly 6.5 to 7 for the olivine crystals and about 4 to 4.5 for the iron-nickel matrix. Toughness is variable; the metal is malleable while the olivine is brittle. Stability can be compromised by terrestrial oxidation (rusting) of the iron matrix if exposed to moisture.
Care & Maintenance
Requires dry storage to prevent oxidation (rusting) of the iron-nickel matrix. Avoid water, harsh chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners. Coating with a thin layer of mineral oil or specialized museum wax is often recommended for preservation.
Rarity & Value
Extremely rare, representing less than 1 percent of all known meteorites. Value is determined by the quality, size, and transparency of the olivine crystals, the stability of the metal matrix, and the overall aesthetic appeal. Prices can range from tens to thousands of dollars per gram depending on provenance and preparation quality.
Special Characteristics
Extraterrestrial origin containing gem-grade olivine (peridot) crystals suspended in a native iron-nickel alloy matrix. Magnetic due to the heavy iron-nickel content.
Lore & History
Pallasites carry profound symbolic significance as fallen stars or messengers from deep space, often used in metaphysical practices to bridge the physical and spiritual realms, ground high-frequency energies, and connect with the cosmos. Historically named after the German naturalist Peter Simon Pallas, who described the first recorded specimen in the 18th century.