Vredefort Dome Impact Crater South Africa Melt Rock

Vredefort Dome Impact Structure: A Geological Marvel

Let's delve into the fascinating world of the Vredefort Dome Asteroid Impact Structure, one of our planet's most remarkable geological features. This melt rock from this ancient site makes a handsome contribution to any world impacts collection!

The Vredefort Impact Structure: A Cosmic Collision

The Vredefort Impact Structure is a testament to an ancient colossal meteorite impact that shaped our Earth over 2 billion years ago. Here's what you need to know about this incredible impact structure:

Formation and Discovery of the Vredefort Dome

The Vredefort Impact Structure is located in the Free State province of South Africa, named after the nearby town of Vredefort. Approximately 2,023 million years ago, a massive asteroid, estimated to be between 12 and 16 miles in diameter, hurtled toward Earth. The impact created a crater with an original diameter of at least 110 miles, affecting the surrounding bedrock in a circular region spanning around 190 miles. Over time, erosion has reduced the crater's depth to approximately 4.3–6.8 miles, obliterating the original structure. What remains today is the Vredefort Dome, a partial ring of hills with a diameter of 43 miles.

Size and Relevance

The Vredefort Impact Structure is the Earth's largest verified impact structure. The central uplift, known as the Vredefort Dome, is a geological marvel resulting from the rebound of rock beneath the impact site after the collision. Interestingly, this impact structure is the second-oldest known on Earth, following the Yarrabubba impact. The asteroid that struck Vredefort is believed to be one of the largest ever to hit Earth. The impact's energy reshaped the landscape, leaving a legacy of geological wonders.

In total, only 18 of the approximately 200 known impact structures on Earth are confirmed to have formed in the Proterozoic, and none in the Archean. The only evidence of impact events in the Archean is limited to 17 impact ejecta layers, with the oldest being 3.47 Ga.

Specimen Details

Vredefort melt rock size: 61mm L X 50mm W X 15mm D; Weight: 105.6 grams. This beautiful specimen features great characteristics with a polished flat front and back. A very thin coat of biodegradable oil was applied to the front and back for photographic purposes and is easily removed with soap and water. The crust runs around part of the edge of this specimen. Legally collected in 2002.

What is Included

This specimen ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag (shown), tag stand, and information about the Vredefort crater. Please note that the photo cube and display base are not included.

Rare Opportunity

Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of melt rock from one of the most impressive meteorite impact structures on Earth!

This scientific material is Guaranteed Authentic. It was professionally and legally collected and arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity.