Sudbury Shatter Cone XL 5 lb

Sudbury Meteorite Impact Structure: A Geological Marvel

This is a large 5 lb shatter cone from the Sudbury meteorite impact structure, located in the Sudbury Igneous Complex, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the largest and most well-preserved impact structures on Earth, with a diameter of approximately 250 kilometers.

Formation and History

The formation of the Sudbury impact structure is believed to have occurred about 1.85 billion years ago during the Paleoproterozoic era. The impact was caused by an asteroid or comet with a diameter of about 10-15 kilometers, traveling over 20 kilometers per second. This collision resulted in a crater estimated to be about 100 kilometers in diameter, which has since been eroded and modified by geological processes.

Unique Features of the Sudbury Impact Structure

Among the unique features of the Sudbury Impact Structure is the presence of shatter cones—pointed, striated rock formations often found at meteorite impact sites. These unusual structures are created by the extreme pressures and temperatures experienced during the impact event. Sudbury's shatter cones vary considerably in size, with some reaching several meters in length, making them some of the most prominent examples of this phenomenon known to science.

Rich Mineral Deposits

The Sudbury Impact Structure also boasts complex mineral deposits, including significant concentrations of nickel, copper, platinum, palladium, and other precious metals, which have been exploited for mining. The rich presence of these minerals is attributed to the intense heat and pressure generated by the impact, which caused the molten rock to segregate into layers of different compositions. The Sudbury Impact Structure is a unique testament to the immense power of cosmic events and their enduring influence on our planet's geology.

Sudbury Shatter Cone Details

Size of Shatter Cone: 220mm L X 155mm W X 65mm D. Weight: 2,269.2 grams or 5 lb.

This dynamic Sudbury shatter cone ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand, and information about the specimen. The display stand and photo cube are not included.

Add to Sudbury to Your Impact Collection Today!

This shatter cone would make a great addition to any serious geological collection! The Sudbury impact structure is an incredible asteroid impact site.

This shatter cone is guaranteed authentic and ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand and information about the Sudbury Impact Structure.