Marquiz Dome Shatter Cone XL

Marquez Dome Shatter Cone Meteorite Impact

Learn more about this Marquez Dome Shatter Cone, an extraordinary specimen from one of the most remarkable impact craters in the southwestern United States.

Located in Leon County, Texas, near the town of Marquez, this dome-shaped meteorite impact structure spans approximately 8 miles in diameter and dates back 58 million years. This exceptional specimen provides a glimpse into the dynamic forces of planetary impacts, making it a must-have for collectors and researchers alike.

Unique Features of the Marquez Dome Shatter Cone

One of the standout features of the Marquez Dome is its beautifully preserved shatter cones. These distinctive, cone-shaped rock formations are rare geological phenomena, found only in impact craters and nuclear explosion sites. Formed under extreme pressure and temperature, shatter cones showcase unique fan-like patterns and "horse-tail" textures, offering undeniable evidence of a meteorite strike.

• Geological Significance: Shatter cones are critical to understanding the energy, angle, and speed of meteorite impacts.
• Research Value: These well-preserved formations are invaluable for geological and planetary studies.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Their intricate patterns make them a fascinating display piece.

Historical Context and Discovery

Geologists first identified the Marquez Dome in the 1980s during surveys for oil and gas reserves. The circular structure, coupled with the presence of shatter cones, quickly led to its identification as an impact crater. This discovery opened up new avenues for understanding the processes behind meteorite impacts and their effects on Earth's geological history.

Product Specifications

• Size: 217mm L x 140mm W x 68mm D
• Weight: 1,730 grams (approximately 3.8 lbs.)
• What is Included: Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand, and information about Marquez Dome Shatter Cones

History of the Marquez Dome Impact Structure

• An impact crater typically refers to a surface depression formed immediately after an asteroid or meteorite impact. Over time, craters can erode or become filled with sediments, which alters their appearance.
• An impact structure refers to the broader geological feature that results from an impact event, including any surface crater as well as deeper subsurface deformations and shock-related features. It may include elements like shatter cones, fractured bedrock, and structural uplift.

In the case of Marquez Dome:

• The original surface crater has likely been eroded or obscured due to geological processes over millions of years.
• What remains visible today is the uplifted dome-shaped structure beneath the surface, along with well-preserved shatter cones and shock metamorphic evidence, identifying it as an impact structure.

Thus, Marquez Dome is categorized as an eroded impact structure. Shatter cones are not just a geological artifacts; they are a unique piece of Earth's impact history. This shatter cone's exquisite preservation and scientific importance make it a prized addition to any impact collection. Whether you are a geologist, collector, or enthusiast, this rare specimen offers unparalleled insights into the dramatic forces of meteorite impacts.

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