Imilac is a member of the pallasite group of meteorites, widely considered to be the most beautiful of all meteorite varieties. These rocks consist of a silvery-colored metal matrix of iron-nickel enclosing green-to-brown grains of the magnesian silicate mineral olivine. Gem-quality olivine is also known as the semi-precious gemstone peridot. Grains of olivine and peridot both occur in Imilac; these grains are somewhat rounded and somewhat angular. This indicates that the rock has been partially annealed after it formed at the core-mantle boundary of its parent asteroid.
When back-lit it is evident why pallasites are the most beautiful extraterrestrial substance known.
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