Fukang Pallasite

Fukang is one of the most visually spectacular pallasites ever discovered, famous for its large gem-quality olivine crystals embedded within an iron-nickel metallic matrix.

Discovered in China, the Fukang pallasite has become legendary among collectors for the exceptional size, transparency, and golden-green color of its olivines. When illuminated, fine Fukang slices reveal a luminous stained-glass effect that makes this meteorite one of the most desirable pallasites in the world.

Fukang is renowned for its large translucent olivines and exceptional display quality.

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Fukang Pallasite Etched Slice 622 g with Peridot

Fukang Pallasite Etched Slice 622 g with Peridot 2

Pallasites

Fukang Pallasite Etched Slice with Translucent Olivines – 622 g -SOLD

Exceptional etched slice of the famous Fukang pallasite weighing 622 g, displaying a spectacular network of translucent peridot-quality olivine crystals embedded within an iron-nickel metallic matrix. The etching reveals the internal Widmanstätten structure of the metal while enhancing the contrast between silicates and metallic phases. Under transmitted...

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The Fukang Pallasite

The Fukang meteorite was discovered near Fukang, in the Xinjiang region of China. It is classified as a main-group pallasite, one of the rarest and most beautiful classes of meteorites.

Pallasites are stony-iron meteorites composed of olivine crystals suspended within an iron-nickel metal matrix. They are commonly interpreted as materials formed near the boundary between the metallic core and silicate mantle of a differentiated asteroid.

Large Gem-Quality Olivines

Fukang is particularly celebrated for the exceptional size and clarity of many of its olivine crystals. These crystals may display vivid golden, amber, honey, and green tones when viewed under transmitted light.

This luminous effect gives fine Fukang slices a remarkable stained-glass appearance, making them among the most visually dramatic meteorite specimens available to collectors.

Metal and Silicate Structure

The beauty of Fukang lies in the contrast between two radically different materials:

Iron-nickel metal, forming the structural matrix
Olivine crystals, appearing as translucent extraterrestrial gemstones

This combination provides both aesthetic impact and scientific value, recording processes of metal-silicate interaction in an early differentiated asteroid.

Scientific Importance

Like other pallasites, Fukang provides important information about planetary differentiation and the internal structure of early Solar System bodies.

It contributes to the study of:

Core-mantle boundary processes
Metal-silicate mixing
Olivine crystallization
Early asteroid evolution

Collector Interest

Fukang is among the most sought-after pallasites in the world. Collectors especially value specimens with:

Large transparent olivine crystals
Balanced distribution of olivines
Strong contrast between metal and silicate phases
High-quality preparation and polishing
Excellent translucency under backlighting

Large complete slices with gem-quality olivines are increasingly difficult to obtain and are considered premium display specimens.

Display and Illumination

Fukang pallasite slices are particularly impressive when backlit. Light passing through the olivine crystals reveals their natural transparency and color, transforming the specimen into a luminous extraterrestrial object.

This makes Fukang highly desirable for museum displays, luxury interiors, and advanced meteorite collections.

Available Specimens

The specimens presented in this category include selected Fukang pallasites chosen for their olivine quality, preparation, and display appeal.

FAQ

What is the Fukang pallasite?

Fukang is a main-group pallasite meteorite discovered in China, famous for its large transparent olivine crystals.

Why is Fukang so famous?

It is renowned for the exceptional size, clarity, and beauty of its olivines, which create a striking stained-glass effect when illuminated.

What type of meteorite is Fukang?

Fukang is a stony-iron meteorite belonging to the main-group pallasites.

Are Fukang olivines natural gemstones?

Yes. The olivines are natural extraterrestrial crystals formed inside an asteroid more than 4.5 billion years ago.

Why are Fukang slices valuable?

Fukang slices are valued for their large gem-quality olivines, strong visual contrast, rarity, and exceptional display quality.