Pica Glass is a rare and unusual natural glass found in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, one of the driest environments on Earth. It is believed to have formed during a high-energy event, most likely a meteor airburst, where intense heat rapidly melted surface material and transformed it into glass. This origin places Pica Glass alongside impact-related materials as a potential Impactite.
Pica Glass is characterised by its twisted, folded, and often sculpted forms, reflecting the turbulent conditions under which it formed. Specimens typically range from dark green to black and display glossy surfaces with complex textures created during rapid cooling. Some pieces show unusual internal features or inclusions, adding further interest and variation. Its irregular shapes and dynamic appearance set it apart from more uniform natural glasses.
Pica Glass remains limited in occurrence and continues to be studied for its formation and properties. For collectors, it offers a distinctive and increasingly recognised material within meteorite-related categories, combining unusual morphology with a strong association to high-energy cosmic events. Each specimen reflects a unique set of formation conditions, making it a compelling addition to specialised collections.
How the scales and gridlines work.
Each small square is 1x1mm, and each bold-lined square is 10x10mm, or 1cm² (1 square centimetre).
Imperial measurements.
1 inch is is easy to figure because it is about 25 small squares, which is 2½ bold squares.
The piece shown in the photo on the left (a Gebel Kamil Iron) is about 70mm from left to right, which is about 2¾ inches, and around 60mm (about 2⅓ inches) from top to bottom.
Please note that any scale cubes, measuring grids, stands, or photographic props shown in listing images are used for display and size reference purposes only and are not included unless specifically stated.
Items are supplied in the packaging shown in the photographs where applicable. Where packaging is not shown, specimens will be carefully packaged to ensure safe transit.
Every meteorite, tektite, and impactite sold by OuterSpacer Meteorites is supplied with a signed and uniquely numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
OuterSpacer Meteorites is a member of both the International Meteorite Collectors Association (IMCA #5751) and the Global Meteorite Association (GMA #G0010), and stands behind the authenticity of every specimen offered for sale.
For more information, please see our Certificates of Authenticity page.
Orders are securely packaged and shipped with tracking. Combined shipping is available for multiple purchases.
For full details regarding shipping methods, processing times, returns, cancellations, and refunds, please refer to our Shipping, Returns & Cancellations, and Refund Policy pages.
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If you have any questions regarding this specimen or any item we offer, please contact us and we will be happy to assist.