Sudbury Shatter Cone - Ontario - Canada

The Sudbury Impact Structure is a major geological structure located in Ontario, Canada. It is the third-largest known impact crater on Earth, as well as one of the oldest. The impact occurred in the Paleoproterozoic era, about 1.8 billion years ago.

To the geologist there is a certain beauty in shatter cones. They are one of the most unique geological "art forms" in nature - the final signature of the Earth yielding to the sky as rock is transformed by an impact. The rock is heated, pummeled and tumbled with whip crack deliberation. When all is quiet, the record left of the event is in the form of detailed horse-tailed patterns on rock.

Shatter cones are conical fractures with typical markings produced by shock waves, and they belong to the regular macroscopic shock inventory in rocks of meteorite or comet impact origins. Distinctive, classic shatter cone "horse tailing" is easily and prominently seen in this specimen. The all-natural reddish, brown, and tan color tones accentuate its natural beauty.

The Sudbury impact crater is mined for the richest nickel and copper ores deposits in the world. Most of these mineral deposits are found on the outer rim of the basin.

Shatter Cone Size: 115mm L X 83mm W X 54mm D, Wt: 381 grams

Ships with Certificate of Authenticity and scientific tag. Stand and photo cube not included.