Kofelsite Impact Myth | Grey Melt Rock | 16.51 grams | Köfels Structure | Austria | SO24

This is a 16.51 gram Grey Melt Rock from the Köfels Structure, Austria. It measures 43x27x13 mm.  The specific origin of kofelsite rocks is uncertain & debated. The rocks are found in a landslide deposit in western Austria. Researchers have suggested that the landslide was impact-triggered. The kofelsite samples in the landslide deposit thus may be impactites (fused rocks from the heat of impact). Some workers have suggested that the rocks are frictionites (fused rocks from landslide heating).

The Köfels landslide was a huge mountain rockslide (a Sturzstrom) that occurred in the Austrian Alps about 9800 years ago near the present day village of Köfels. Some of its features mystified geologists for quite some time. One hypothesis was that it had been caused by an asteroid impact — a Köfels impact event — but more recent research has rejected the idea. This didn't stop a pair of British engineers from publishing a book that claims that a) it was an asteroid impact, b) it inspired a lot of myths, and c) it was recorded on an ancient Sumerian clay tablet.

The reason for the original impact hypothesis was the presence of fused rock. At the time, the only processes known to be able to do this were either volcanism or meteor impacts. Later research found that it can be also produced by friction and similar fused rock has been found in other large rockslides.

This specimen displays very well even if not proven to be meteorite impact related.  Would be a beautiful addition to any new or existing collection. Comes with a Canagem Collection specimen card.