Angrites
Angrites are rare basaltic achondrites formed on an early differentiated parent body, representing some of the oldest igneous rocks in the Solar System.
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Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite Slice, Plutonic Angrite, 1.00g, Coarse Igneous Texture -
Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite Individual, Angrite (plutonic), 2.08g, Coarse Igneous Texture -
Rafsa 005 Plutonic Angrite Meteorite Individual, 0.61g, Coarse-Grained Igneous Texture -
Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite End Cut, Plutonic Angrite, 0.70g, Coarse Igneous Texture
Angrites are among the rarest achondrite meteorites and the oldest dated basalts in the solar system. They crystallized roughly 4.564 billion years ago, only a few million years after the first solid material formed, making them direct samples of one of the earliest differentiated planetesimals. Unless specifically stated in the listing, specimens in this collection are Meteoritical Bulletin classified.
How we verify angrites are real
Every specimen is tied to a Meteoritical Bulletin entry, the official global registry of classified meteorites maintained by the Meteoritical Society. Classification is performed by accredited laboratories that confirm the unique mineralogy and oxygen isotope ratios that define the angrite parent body. The Bulletin record is the definitive proof of authenticity. Read more: The Meteoritical Bulletin Explained.
Angrite subtypes
Plutonic angrites are coarse-grained rocks that crystallized slowly at depth in their parent body. They preserve the most pristine record of early solar system mantle melting.
Volcanic angrites are fine-grained basaltic angrites that solidified rapidly at or near the surface. Their textures reflect rapid cooling consistent with surface lava flows on a small differentiated body.
Quenched angrites are an intermediate group with textures suggesting fast cooling, sometimes interpreted as impact-related or shallow intrusive material.
Frequently asked questions
Why are angrites so rare? Only a small number of angrites have ever been recovered. Their parent body has not been definitively identified, and supply is limited to a handful of falls and finds worldwide. Read more: How Rare Are Meteorites?
How can I tell an angrite is real? Authentic angrites have a Meteoritical Bulletin entry, ship with documentation, and show distinctive mineralogy dominated by calcium-rich pyroxene, olivine, and anorthite plagioclase. Read more: How Can You Tell if a Meteorite Is Real?
Are angrites magnetic? Angrites contain very little metallic iron and are generally not noticeably magnetic. A strongly magnetic specimen marketed as an angrite warrants closer inspection. Read more: Are Meteorites Magnetic?
What is the angrite parent body? The angrite parent body is an unidentified small differentiated asteroid or planetesimal that no longer exists or has not been telescopically matched. Some research suggests it may have been disrupted very early in solar system history.
Are these specimens authenticated? Unless otherwise noted, every angrite here has a Meteoritical Bulletin record and ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.
See also: Ungrouped Achondrites · HED Meteorites · Stony Meteorites · What Is an Achondrite? · Types of Meteorites · Are Meteorites Illegal to Own?