{"title":"Angrites","description":"\u003cp\u003eAngrites 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow we verify angrites are real\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery 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: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/meteoritical-bulletin-explained\"\u003eThe Meteoritical Bulletin Explained\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAngrite subtypes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlutonic angrites\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVolcanic angrites\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuenched angrites\u003c\/strong\u003e are an intermediate group with textures suggesting fast cooling, sometimes interpreted as impact-related or shallow intrusive material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are angrites so rare?\u003c\/strong\u003e 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: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-rare-are-meteorites\"\u003eHow Rare Are Meteorites?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow can I tell an angrite is real?\u003c\/strong\u003e 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: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-can-you-tell-if-a-meteorite-is-real\"\u003eHow Can You Tell if a Meteorite Is Real?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre angrites magnetic?\u003c\/strong\u003e 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: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/are-meteorites-magnetic\"\u003eAre Meteorites Magnetic?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the angrite parent body?\u003c\/strong\u003e 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre these specimens authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Unless otherwise noted, every angrite here has a Meteoritical Bulletin record and ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSee also: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ungrouped-achondrites\"\u003eUngrouped Achondrites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hed-meteorites\"\u003eHED Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-meteorites\"\u003eStony Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-an-achondrite\"\u003eWhat Is an Achondrite?\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/types-of-meteorites\"\u003eTypes of Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/are-meteorites-illegal-to-own\"\u003eAre Meteorites Illegal to Own?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"rafsa-005-plutonic-angrite-extremely-rare-achondrite-0-61g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rafsa 005 Plutonic Angrite Meteorite Individual, 0.61g, Coarse-Grained Igneous Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCoarse-grained igneous structure from slow planetary cooling\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 0.61g Rafsa 005 individual displays the characteristic coarse-grained texture that defines plutonic angrites. The specimen's crystalline structure formed deep within a differentiated parent body, where slow cooling allowed large mineral grains to develop over millions of years. The visible texture reflects pyroxene and olivine crystals that grew under conditions impossible to replicate on Earth, extreme reducing environments on a small planetary body that differentiated and cooled over 4.5 billion years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRafsa 005 represents one of only twelve recognized angrite meteorites worldwide. This individual provides direct access to ancient planetary processes that occurred during the earliest epoch of Solar System formation, when small bodies briefly sustained magmatic systems before cooling completely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlutonic texture and mineralogy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe coarse grain size in this specimen indicates crystallization deep within the parent body's crust or upper mantle, where insulating rock allowed magma to cool over extended timescales. Individual mineral grains reach sizes visible to the unaided eye, distinguishing plutonic angrites from their volcanic counterparts. The primary mineralogy consists of Al-Ti-rich diopside, olivine, and kirschsteinite, with minor anorthite, an assemblage that crystallized under oxygen fugacity conditions sixteen orders of magnitude below terrestrial basalts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis extreme reducing environment produced unique mineral chemistry not found in any terrestrial rock or other meteorite group. The coarse texture preserves a complete record of the thermal and chemical conditions during parent body differentiation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites derive from a small differentiated asteroid that formed a metallic core, silicate mantle, and basaltic crust within the first few million years of Solar System history. Plutonic angrites like Rafsa 005 crystallized at depth, while volcanic angrites represent surface flows. Both subtypes share identical oxygen isotope signatures and radiometric ages near 4.56 billion years, confirming they originated from the same parent body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe angrite parent body experienced complete differentiation and subsequent disruption, scattering fragments that now reach Earth as meteorites. Each specimen provides constraints on early planetary thermal evolution, core formation timescales, and the behavior of magmatic systems on bodies too small to retain internal heat. Advanced collectors studying planetary formation processes will find detailed information in our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e reference guide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Rafsa 005 holds official classification as a plutonic angrite in the Meteoritical Bulletin. You can verify the classification details via the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa%20005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin Database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its provenance and classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes plutonic angrites different from volcanic angrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Plutonic angrites crystallized slowly at depth within the parent body, producing coarse-grained textures with large visible mineral crystals. Volcanic angrites erupted onto the surface and cooled rapidly, resulting in fine-grained textures. Both subtypes share the same parent body and formation age, but preserve different cooling histories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 0.61g Rafsa 005 individual, certificate of authenticity with classification details, and a protective display box for storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are angrites so scientifically significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e Angrites represent some of the oldest differentiated igneous rocks in the Solar System, with crystallization ages predating Earth's formation. They preserve a complete record of planetary differentiation processes, core formation, and magmatic evolution on small bodies, conditions that existed only briefly in Solar System history and cannot be studied in any other material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eInstitutional and advanced collector value\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith only twelve recognized angrite meteorites worldwide, specimens from this group remain among the most sought-after materials in meteoritics. Plutonic angrites constitute an even smaller subset, offering researchers and collectors access to deep-crustal igneous processes on a vanished planetary body. This 0.61g individual provides an accessible entry point into angrite collecting while maintaining the scientific significance that makes this group essential for institutions studying early Solar System chronology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe coarse texture in this specimen allows direct observation of the igneous structure without magnification, making it suitable for both research applications and educational displays. Collectors building comprehensive achondrite suites will find Rafsa 005 essential for representing the angrite group. Browse additional differentiated meteorite specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/angrites\"\u003eAngrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection and explore related materials in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/premium-specimens\"\u003ePremium Specimens\u003c\/a\u003e category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa%20005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Angrite (plutonic) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44804185751599,"sku":"RAFSA-005-0.61G-INDIVIDUAL","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_7237.heic?v=1766600790"},{"product_id":"rafsa-005-plutonic-angrite-extremely-rare-achondrite-2-08g-w-coa-display-box-copy","title":"Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite Individual, Angrite (plutonic), 2.08g, Coarse Igneous Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCoarse-grained plutonic angrite from an ancient differentiated body\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2.08g individual displays the characteristic coarse-grained texture that defines plutonic angrites, igneous rock that crystallized slowly beneath the surface of a differentiated parent body over 4.5 billion years ago. The visible grain structure reveals a cooling history fundamentally different from the rapidly-cooled volcanic angrites, preserving information about magmatic processes in the early Solar System. Found in Algeria in 2023, Rafsa 005 represents one of fewer than 25 known angrite falls and finds worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen's size and preservation make it suitable for both display and scientific study. Its classification as a plutonic member of the angrite group places it among the rarest categories of differentiated achondrites, with total known material for all plutonic angrites combined measuring less than a few kilograms globally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe coarse-grained texture visible in this specimen resulted from slow cooling within the interior of its parent body, allowing large crystals of Al-Ti-rich augite, olivine, and anorthite to form. This contrasts sharply with basaltic angrites, which cooled rapidly at or near the surface and show fine-grained textures. The mineral assemblage reflects crystallization from a calcium-aluminum-rich magma under reducing conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites are characterized by extreme oxygen isotope compositions and old crystallization ages, with some specimens dated to within the first few million years of Solar System history. The plutonic members of this group provide direct evidence of differentiation and magmatic activity on small planetary bodies during the earliest stages of planetary formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites formed on a parent body that differentiated early in Solar System history, developing a metallic core, silicate mantle, and basaltic crust within the first 10 million years after CAI formation. The plutonic angrites crystallized from magmas trapped within the mantle or lower crust, while volcanic angrites represent surface flows. The parent body likely experienced catastrophic disruption, scattering fragments that eventually reached Earth as meteorites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis meteorite type is scientifically significant because it preserves a record of planetary differentiation processes that occurred when the Solar System was less than 10 million years old. Plutonic angrites are particularly valuable for understanding the thermal evolution and magmatic processes of small planetary bodies. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to explore how scientists use specimens like this to reconstruct early Solar System history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Rafsa 005 is officially classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as Angrite (plutonic). You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa%20005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin Database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its provenance and classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does plutonic mean in meteorite classification?\u003c\/strong\u003e Plutonic refers to igneous rock that crystallized slowly beneath the surface of a planetary body, forming large mineral grains. This contrasts with volcanic rock, which cooled quickly at the surface and shows fine-grained textures. The coarse grain size in this specimen is direct evidence of subsurface crystallization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This 2.08g individual comes with a certificate of authenticity and display box. The specimen weight is 2.08g of meteoritic material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow rare are plutonic angrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Extremely rare. Angrites as a whole represent less than 0.1% of all classified meteorites, and plutonic angrites comprise only a handful of specimens within that group. Combined total known weight for all plutonic angrites worldwide is less than a few kilograms, making individual specimens highly sought after by collectors and institutions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are angrites scientifically important?\u003c\/strong\u003e Angrites crystallized within the first few million years of Solar System history and preserve isotopic and chemical signatures from that time period. They provide direct evidence of planetary differentiation, core formation, and magmatic processes on small bodies during the earliest stages of planet formation, processes we cannot observe directly today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlutonic angrites occupy the apex of achondrite collecting due to their extreme scarcity and scientific importance. With fewer than 25 total angrite specimens known and only a handful classified as plutonic, availability is measured in individual specimens per year globally. This 2.08g individual represents an accessible entry point into one of the rarest meteorite classifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen's classification by the Meteoritical Society and its 2023 find date place it among the most recently recognized plutonic angrites. For collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/angrites\"\u003eAngrites\u003c\/a\u003e collections or institutions seeking representative specimens of early Solar System differentiation, this individual offers documented provenance and scientific value. The combination of size, preservation, and classification makes it suitable for both display and educational applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa%20005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Angrite (plutonic) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44806928302127,"sku":"RAFSA-005-2.08G-INDIVIDUAL","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/D249DE72-183F-420A-AAB6-DF093B5E2EA3.jpg?v=1766698966"},{"product_id":"rafsa-005-plutonic-angrite-extremely-rare-achondrite-0-70g-w-coa-display-box-copy-copy","title":"Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite End Cut, Plutonic Angrite, 0.70g, Coarse Igneous Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAn end cut from one of the rarest achondrite groups, 0.70g of ancient igneous crust\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 0.70g end cut of Rafsa 005 exposes the interior of a plutonic angrite, a coarse-grained igneous rock that crystallized slowly at depth within a small, differentiated asteroid early in solar system history. The end cut format preserves a natural exterior surface on one face while revealing the internal mineral structure on the polished cut face, giving a direct view of the texture that defines this classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRafsa 005 was recovered in Algeria in 2023 and classified as an angrite, a group so rare that fewer than 100 members are known worldwide. The plutonic subtype is even less common, representing material from deeper within the angrite parent body rather than surface lava flows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlutonic angrites are defined by their coarse-grained igneous texture, a product of slow cooling at depth. Unlike the finer-grained basaltic angrites that represent surface flows, plutonic angrites show large, well-developed crystals of kirschsteinite (a calcium-iron olivine), augite, and anorthite plagioclase. These minerals are essentially unique to angrites, kirschsteinite is rare in any other geological context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the cut face of this end cut, the coarse crystalline texture is visible, with distinct mineral grains distinguishable under magnification. The natural exterior surface retains the weathering patina from the Algerian desert environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites are one of the oldest and most compositionally extreme achondrite groups. They formed on a parent body that was strongly depleted in volatile elements and highly oxidized relative to most other meteorite parent bodies. Radiometric dating places angrite crystallization ages among the earliest in the solar system, some angrites formed within the first few million years after solar system formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe angrite parent body remains unidentified, but its extreme composition suggests a unique and poorly understood early solar system environment. Learn more about meteorite classification on our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Rafsa 005 is an officially classified meteorite. See the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa+005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for Rafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between an end cut and a slice?\u003c\/strong\u003e An end cut is taken from the end of a meteorite individual, preserving one natural exterior surface while exposing the interior on the cut face. A slice is cut through the interior of the stone, showing two cut faces. End cuts typically show more natural surface and less interior area than slices of equivalent weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does plutonic angrite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Angrite refers to the meteorite group, a rare class of achondrites from a highly oxidized, volatile-depleted parent body. Plutonic means the rock crystallized slowly at depth rather than erupting as lava, resulting in the coarse grain size that distinguishes plutonic angrites from basaltic angrites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 0.70g end cut shown, in a display box, with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites as a group represent some of the most scientifically significant and collectibly scarce meteorites available. Fewer than 100 angrites are known, and plutonic angrites are a subset of that already small group. Rafsa 005, classified in 2023, is a recent addition to this exclusive catalog. For collectors building a representative achondrite or differentiated meteorite collection, an angrite is a meaningful and difficult-to-obtain specimen type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/angrites\"\u003eAngrites collection\u003c\/a\u003e or explore all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-meteorites\"\u003eStony Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa+005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Angrite (plutonic) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44806939377711,"sku":"RAFSA-005-0.70G-INDIVIDUAL","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/7690354A-4D64-48B9-ACC4-DA7BEAA9F0B2.jpg?v=1766699283"},{"product_id":"rafsa-005-plutonic-angrite-extremely-rare-achondrite-1-00g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rafsa 005 Angrite Meteorite Slice, Plutonic Angrite, 1.00g, Coarse Igneous Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA full cross-section of plutonic angrite, 1.00g slice showing ancient igneous mineralogy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 1.00g slice of Rafsa 005 provides a complete interior cross-section through a plutonic angrite, one of the rarest achondrite types in any collection. The slice format maximizes the exposed surface area, giving a clear view of the coarse-grained igneous texture that defines plutonic angrites: large, well-developed crystals that grew slowly within the interior of a differentiated asteroid billions of years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRafsa 005 was recovered in Algeria in 2023. As a plutonic angrite, it represents deeper crustal or mantle material from the angrite parent body, a world that melted, differentiated, and developed a layered internal structure in the earliest epoch of solar system history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice face reveals the characteristic plutonic texture of this classification. Coarse crystals of kirschsteinite, augite, and anorthite are visible, their grain boundaries and cleavage planes readable under a loupe or macro lens. This mineralogy is essentially diagnostic of angrites, kirschsteinite in particular is an extremely rare calcium-iron olivine found almost exclusively in this meteorite group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1.00g weight puts this slice at the larger end of available Rafsa 005 material, with proportionally more surface area to examine than the 0.70g end cut. Both faces are cut, giving a uniform view across the full cross-section of the specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites occupy a unique position in meteoritics. They are among the oldest dated rocks in the solar system, with some crystallization ages within 4-7 million years of solar system formation. Their strongly oxidized, volatile-depleted chemistry places their parent body in a thermal and compositional environment quite different from the parent bodies of most other achondrite groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plutonic subgroup, to which Rafsa 005 belongs, formed deeper within the parent body than the basaltic angrites, providing a window into the interior structure of this ancient and poorly understood world. Learn more about achondrite classification on our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Rafsa 005 is an officially classified meteorite. See the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa+005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for Rafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does this slice differ from the 0.70g end cut?\u003c\/strong\u003e The slice shows two cut faces and the full interior cross-section of the meteorite. The end cut preserves one natural exterior surface. The slice provides more interior surface area for examining the igneous texture; the end cut offers a natural exterior view on one side. Both are from the same classified stone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does plutonic angrite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Angrite is the meteorite group, rare achondrites from a highly oxidized, volatile-depleted parent body. Plutonic means slow crystallization at depth, producing the coarse grain size that distinguishes this subtype from the finer-grained basaltic angrites formed in surface lava flows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 1.00g slice shown, in a display box, with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngrites are among the most scientifically significant meteorites a collector can own. The group has fewer than 100 known members, and plutonic angrites are a subset of that already scarce total. Rafsa 005, classified in 2023, represents one of the more recent additions to this group. The slice format makes this specimen particularly suitable for display and examination, with the full interior texture accessible across the cut face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/angrites\"\u003eAngrites collection\u003c\/a\u003e or explore all \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-meteorites\"\u003eStony Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rafsa+005\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRafsa 005\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Angrite (plutonic) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44806944358447,"sku":"RAFSA-005-1.00G-INDIVIDUAL","price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FE87FAD0-A750-4507-B900-B11E294DE8D6.jpg?v=1766699593"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/collections\/angrites-collection.png?v=1766196759","url":"https:\/\/www.tcmeteorites.com\/collections\/angrites.oembed","provider":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}