• Location: Kalgoorlie, Western Australia
• Weight: 2.9g
• Size: 1.7 x 1.7 x 0.9 cm
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Australites – an extraordinary natural phenomenon Australites formed about 790,000 years ago during a massive meteorite impact in what is now Southeast Asia. Molten material was expelled thousands of kilometres to Australia, where it briefly left Earth's atmosphere. Upon re-entry, it underwent rare secondary remelting, 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 other tektites, allowing them to ascend just above the atmosphere. Upon re-entry, they were subjected to a rare ablative melting process. Under aerodynamic stress, molten material accumulated along the tektite's edges, forming the characteristic ablative rim — clear evidence of formation during flight. This is known as the ablative phenomenon. Australite buttons are typically disc, lens, mushroom, or saucer-shaped, and are considered the most aesthetically pleasing and perfectly formed natural glasses in the world. Other tektites (e.g., moldavites) do not occur in this shape or quality. 2. A single global location 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 dwindling resource The richest sites (e.g., the Nullarbor Plain) have mostly been depleted over the 20th century. Today, finding new specimens is increasingly difficult, and collecting is regulated or prohibited in many areas. Heavy fines are imposed for illegal collection or export. Commercial-scale collection can even lead to imprisonment. 4. Excellent investment potential Prices for well-preserved specimens continue to rise — especially for symmetrical buttons with rims. Like moldavites, australites have collectible 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 contend fiercely — many never reach Europe.