The most expensive meteorite known is the Fukang meteorite.
Discovering the Fukang Meteorite
Discovered in 2000 in the Gobi Desert near Fukang, China, this celestial stone quickly gained recognition for its extraordinary beauty and unique composition. It is a rare pallasite meteorite, a type that makes up less than 1% of all known meteorites. Pallasites are characterized by beautiful translucent olivine crystals (peridot) embedded within a nickel-iron matrix, creating a stunning visual effect when sliced and polished.
The striking appearance of the Fukang meteorite, with its gem-quality olivine crystals interspersed throughout the metallic base, is what makes it highly sought after by collectors and scientists alike. Its visual appeal has even been compared to precious stones on Earth, evoking a similar sense of wonder and beauty as certain types of jasper. This incredible combination of extraterrestrial origin and stunning aesthetics contributes significantly to its high valuation.
Key Characteristics of the Fukang Meteorite
Here are some distinguishing features that contribute to the Fukang meteorite's status:
- Type: Pallasite meteorite, known for its distinct olivine crystals embedded in a metal matrix.
- Composition: Primarily composed of iron and nickel, interspersed with gem-quality olivine crystals.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Often described as resembling a celestial stained-glass window due to the translucent olivine.
- Rarity: Pallasites constitute a very small percentage of all meteorites found on Earth, making them exceptionally rare.
- Origin: Believed to originate from the mantle-core boundary of a differentiated asteroid, providing insights into planetary formation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Pallasite |
| Composition | Olivine crystals within an iron-nickel matrix |
| Appearance | Translucent, gem-like crystals creating a stunning visual effect |
| Rarity | Less than 1% of all known meteorites are pallasites |
| Discovery | Found in 2000 in the Gobi Desert, China |
This meteorite stands as a testament to the incredible wonders that can fall from the sky, captivating those who behold its unique, extraterrestrial beauty.
