Nantan Meteorite. Iron, IAB-MG. China - (25° 6'N, 107° 42'E). Found: 1958. ...

Description

Nantan Meteorite
Iron, IAB-MG
China - (25° 6'N, 107° 42'E)
Found: 1958

The most noticeable feature of this specimen of the Nantan Meteorite from China is its immense size as the rock from space weighs a stout 16 kilograms (35 pounds). The dark meteoritic monster displays very intriguing crystallization patterns over its rugged and highly tactile surface. The hefty example is a rather intense blackish-gray coloration with patches of bronze rusty patina throughout its dimensional exterior. There is conjecture that such remnants might have been associated with a 'witnessed' fall centuries ago, but that fact has never been definitely proven. Found in 1958, this meteorite had a very large total mass of 9.5 tons, but pieces are not typically seen for sale - in comparison to other prolific Irons. In fact, China had an Iron shortage when the material was first recovered, but pieces taken to the steel furnaces could not be melted due to the high Nickel content. The octahedral crystallization makes such an example very visually impactful, and this rock has a complex primary display surface and a reverse with vibrant patina.
Overall Measurements: 11.81 x 7.87 x 5.12 inches (30.00 x 20.00 x 13.00 cm), weighs 16.1 kilograms (35.5 pounds)

[Scale: 1 inch, with mark at 1 cm]

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