Atacama Impact Glass

Discover our collection of Atacama Impact Glass, a rare natural impact glass discovered within the Atacama Desert of northern Chile.

Unlike many well-known impact materials that have been studied for decades, Atacama Impact Glass is a comparatively recent scientific discovery. Published research in 2021 described an extensive impact glass strewn field within the Atacama Desert and proposed the informal name Atacamaites for this distinctive material because its characteristics differ from recognised tektites and other natural impact glasses.

Current research suggests the glass formed approximately 7.8 million years ago during a meteorite impact that melted terrestrial material before it cooled rapidly into natural glass. While the impact origin is well supported by geological evidence, the source crater has not yet been conclusively identified, making Atacama Impact Glass an active area of scientific research.

Our collection showcases specimens selected for their provenance, natural characteristics and geological interest.

As our collection continues to grow, additional Atacama Impact Glass specimens will be added.

Why Collect Atacama Impact Glass?

• Rare natural impact glass from the Atacama Desert, Chile.
• Informally known as Atacamaites in the scientific literature.
• Current research suggests an age of approximately 7.8 million years.
• Represents one of the most recently recognised natural impact glass discoveries.
• An active area of geological and planetary science research.
• A distinctive addition to impact glass, meteorite and natural history collections.

Featured Specimens

Our collection may include:

• Raw Specimens
• Collector Specimens
• Display Specimens
• Complete Specimens
• Fragment Specimens

As our collection grows, additional specimens and natural forms will become available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Atacama Impact Glass?

Atacama Impact Glass is a naturally occurring impact glass discovered within the Atacama Desert of northern Chile. It formed when terrestrial material melted during a meteorite impact and cooled rapidly into natural glass.

What are Atacamaites?

Atacamaites is the informal scientific name proposed for this distinctive impact glass because its characteristics differ from recognised tektites and other natural impact glasses.

Is Atacama Impact Glass a tektite?

No. Current research indicates that Atacama Impact Glass differs from recognised tektites and is generally regarded as a distinct type of natural impact glass.

Where is Atacama Impact Glass found?

It is currently known from the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, where an extensive impact glass strewn field has been documented.

Has the impact crater been found?

The impact origin is well supported by published geological research. However, at the time of writing, the source crater has not been conclusively identified and continues to be the subject of scientific investigation.

Related Collections

You may also be interested in:

• Impactites & Impact Glass
• Tektites
• Libyan Desert Glass
• Darwin Glass
• Meteorite Specimens