Meteorite Pallasite Jepara – Java, Indonesia

The Jepara meteorite was discovered in May 2008 on the island of Java in Indonesia, near the town of Jepara. It was found during excavation work in muddy soil. The total weight found is 499.5 kg. The surface of the meteorite is corroded and rusted due to weathering.

Jepara belongs to the group of pallasites, which are rare meteorites containing a metallic base composed of nickel and iron in which olivine crystals of 6 to 12 mm in size are evenly distributed. Olivine makes up about 64% of the volume of the meteorite, while magnetite, an iron oxide, makes up another 23%, and nickel sulphides and schreibersite, an iron-nickel phosphide, make up the remaining 13%.

Chemical analysis has shown that olivine has a uniform composition, with forsterite content ranging from 12-13 %. The presence of magnetite suggests that it is a product of oxidation of the original metallic phases of the meteorite, while the nickel sulphides may be the result of alteration of the original sulphur compounds. The surface weathering indicates that the meteorite has been exposed to moisture and oxygen for a long time, which has altered its original composition.

Despite extensive weathering, the Jepara meteorite still preserves valuable clues to the ancient history of the solar system. Its composition and structure are evidence of the processes that took place billions of years ago to form planetesimals and other bodies that later became part of the Solar System.

Usage

Thin slices are made from the material of the Jepara meteorite and used to decorate the dials of luxury watches. Thanks to the unique pattern formed by iron and olivine crystals, each slice has a distinctive structure and appearance, making these watches very exclusive. The use of the meteorite in watches adds value, as it is a material originating from space, which is billions of years old.

Interesting fact

The Jepara meteorite is not subject to corrosion because its iron has already been converted to magnetite. This makes it an ideal choice for those concerned about meteorite rusting.