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Glorieta Mountain
Meteorite |
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Meteorite Type: Stoney Iron
Classification: Anomolous Pallasite, Olivine Content Very Spotty
Most Masses are Siderites (Solid Metal)
Location: Sante Fe County, New Mexico, U.S.A.
Fall Date: ~200-300 years ago
Discovered: May, 1884
Total Known Weight: > 400 kg
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The
Glorieta Mountain Meteorite was first discovered in Canoncito, Santa
Fe County, New Mexico, USA during May of 1884. It is a small
strewnfield spanning 3 square miles which fell in very steep, rugged
terrain. It is highly sought after by collectors as it is one of the
most beautiful meteorites ever discovered. It is found in two forms,
siderites (irons) and pallasites (olivine and iron). The ratio of
iron to olivine in the pallasitic forms favors iron with usual
compositions of 60% iron to 30% olivine. But sometimes Glorieta irons
are found with only one or two olivine crystals showing. So the
distribution of olivine in the metal matrix is spotty. It is
classified as a rare Stoney/Iron specifically an anomalous Pallasite.
Some specimens found still retain the magnatite
fusion crust with
flow lines and showing orientation. Although this was not a witnessed
fall, it is believed to have fallen around 200- 300 years ago.
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