FUKANG -SPECTACULAR METEORITE SLICE WITH SPACE GEMS. ...

Description

FUKANG -SPECTACULAR METEORITE SLICE WITH SPACE GEMS
Stoney Iron, PAL (Pallasite)
Fukang, Xinjiang Uygur, People's Republic Of China
Thought by many to be the most beautiful pallasite in the world, the Fukang meteorite boasts considerably larger crystals of the characteristic yellow-green olivine than its nearest rivals, the Esquel and Imilac meteorites. It was found in 2003, and only two specimens were recovered; after some uncertainty due to the unprecedented size of the crystals, it was assigned to the Main Group pallasites. Some of the crystals in the nickel-iron matrix of this large example are so fine as to be classified as peridot, the gem form of olivine. Peridot is considered a highly desirable gemstone and was prized by the ancient Egyptians who used it extensively in their royal jewelry. It can range in color from green to orange to yellow, and all of these colors are present in this incredible meteorite slice. Held before the light, they burst into otherworldly life, assuring the viewer that what they see could only be extraterrestrial in origin. Measuring 9⅝ x 8⅜ inches and weighing 893 grams, this is truly a world-class specimen.

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