Australite "button" 2,44g – Kalgoorlie, Western Australia
Locality: Kalgoorlie, Western Australia
Weight: 2,44g
Dimensions: 1,85 x 1,85 x 0,72 cm
Two certificates are included, one from our company, the other from gemologist RNDr. Jaroslav Hyršl
| Category: | Australite |
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Australites – a natural phenomenon of extraordinary origin
Australites formed approximately 790,000 years ago during a massive meteorite impact in what is now Southeast Asia. Molten material was ejected thousands of kilometers to Australia, where it briefly left Earth’s atmosphere. Upon re-entry, it underwent a rare secondary melting, cooled mid-air, and fell to the ground – forming aerodynamically shaped pieces known as “australite buttons”.
1. Unique shape and appearance
Their initial velocity was higher than that of other tektites, allowing them to rise just beyond the atmosphere. As they re-entered, they were subjected to a rare ablative melting process. Under aerodynamic stress, molten material accumulated along the edges of the tektite, forming the characteristic ablative rim – clear evidence of formation during flight. This is known as the ablative phenomenon. Button australites typically have the shape of a disk, lens, mushroom, or saucer, and are considered the most aesthetic and perfectly shaped natural glasses in the world. Other tektites (e.g., moldavites) do not occur in this form or quality.
2. Only one global locality
These tektites are found exclusively in central and southern Australia – such shaped specimens do not exist anywhere else on Earth. Although the strewn field is wide, collector-grade buttons are very rare.
3. Limited and disappearing resource
The richest sites (e.g., Nullarbor Plain) were mostly depleted during the 20th century. Today, it is increasingly difficult to find new specimens, and collecting is regulated or prohibited in many areas. Heavy fines apply for illegal collection or export. Commercial-scale collecting can even result in imprisonment.
4. Excellent investment potential
Prices of well-preserved specimens continue to increase – especially for symmetrical buttons with rims. Like moldavites, australites have collector and investment value, but they are much rarer. Unlike moldavites, which are well known in Europe, australites are less common, adding significant value to collections. Only a few complete buttons are sold per year, and collectors often compete fiercely – many never even reach Europe.