Krasnojarsk Pallasite Slice – 24.92 g - sold

Krasnojarsk Pallasite Slice – 24.92 g

This historic slice of the famous Krasnojarsk pallasite weighs 24.92 g and preserves the classic structure that made this meteorite one of the most important specimens in the history of meteoritics.

The specimen displays translucent olivine crystals naturally embedded within an iron-nickel metallic matrix, producing the characteristic texture associated with pallasite meteorites.

The contrast between silicate crystals and metallic phases creates a visually striking extraterrestrial structure formed deep within an ancient differentiated asteroid more than 4.5 billion years ago.

The Historic “Pallas Iron”

Krasnojarsk occupies a unique place in the history of science. During the 18th century, the German naturalist Peter Simon Pallas studied this unusual meteorite discovered in Siberia and carefully documented its extraordinary structure.

This pioneering work later led to the creation of the term pallasite, used today for all stony-iron meteorites composed of olivines within iron-nickel metal.

Krasnojarsk therefore represents the original historical reference specimen for the entire pallasite group.

Olivines and Metallic Matrix

The olivine crystals visible in this slice formed under extreme conditions near the boundary between the metallic core and silicate mantle of an early asteroid.

The surrounding iron-nickel matrix preserves the metallic component of this ancient planetary body, while the olivines provide transparency, color, and structural contrast highly appreciated by collectors.

Collector Interest

Krasnojarsk specimens are particularly sought after because of their exceptional historical importance within meteoritics.

Collectors value:

• The historical significance of the original Pallas Iron
• The rarity of authentic Krasnojarsk material
• The classic pallasitic structure
• The combination of metal and translucent olivines
• The connection to the birth of meteoritics

Even small slices such as this specimen hold considerable scientific and historical interest due to the foundational role of Krasnojarsk in meteorite classification.

Specimen Details

• Meteorite: Krasnojarsk
• Type: Stony-iron meteorite – Pallasite
• Weight: 24.92 g
• Form: Slice
• Features: Olivine crystals in iron-nickel matrix
• Origin: Russia

FAQ – Krasnojarsk Pallasite

What is the Krasnojarsk meteorite?

Krasnojarsk is the historic pallasite meteorite studied by Peter Simon Pallas during the 18th century.

Why is Krasnojarsk historically important?

It became the original reference specimen for all pallasite meteorites and played a major role in the development of meteoritics.

Why are pallasites called pallasites?

They were named in honor of Peter Simon Pallas, who studied the Krasnojarsk meteorite.

What are pallasites made of?

Pallasites consist mainly of olivine crystals embedded within iron-nickel metal.