{"title":"Budget Friendly Pieces","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection is your entry point into meteorite collecting. Every specimen here is authenticated, Meteoritical Bulletin classified, and priced for new collectors, teachers, gift buyers, and anyone who wants a real piece of space without spending hundreds of dollars. Smaller mass and more common classifications keep prices accessible while preserving full provenance and authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow we verify budget meteorites are real\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAffordable does not mean unverified. Every specimen ships with its official classification from the Meteoritical Bulletin, the international registry maintained by the Meteoritical Society. Learn how that authentication process works on our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/meteoritical-bulletin-explained\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin explained\u003c\/a\u003e page, and review identification tips on \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-can-you-tell-if-a-meteorite-is-real\"\u003ehow to tell if a meteorite is real\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat you will find in this collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmall chondrite fragments.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pieces of ordinary chondrites and unclassified NWA stones make up the bulk of budget inventory, giving collectors a real witness to the early Solar System for a few dollars per gram.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTektite specimens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Indochinites, Libyan desert glass fragments, and other tektites are Earth-formed impactite glass rather than true meteorites, but they record meteorite impacts and remain very affordable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIron meteorite slivers and shards.\u003c\/strong\u003e Small Campo del Cielo, Sikhote-Alin, and Muonionalusta fragments deliver the look and feel of an iron meteorite at a fraction of full-slice prices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEducational lots.\u003c\/strong\u003e Some listings include multiple smaller pieces suited for classrooms, museums, and starter sets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eTips for starting a meteorite collection on a budget\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead background guides before you buy: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/types-of-meteorites\"\u003etypes of meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-much-do-meteorites-cost\"\u003ehow much do meteorites cost\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/are-meteorites-illegal-to-own\"\u003eare meteorites illegal to own\u003c\/a\u003e. Compare prices on a per-gram basis. Stick with sellers who provide a classification and a clear photo of the actual specimen. Stabilize iron-bearing pieces with silica gel from day one, since rust is the most common reason a budget specimen loses value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre budget meteorites still real?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Every specimen on this page is genuine extraterrestrial material (or, in the case of tektites, genuine impactite glass), and every meteorite has a Meteoritical Bulletin classification. 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\u003eWhat is the cheapest type of meteorite?\u003c\/strong\u003e Unclassified NWA chondrites and small Campo del Cielo iron fragments are usually the most affordable per gram. Witnessed falls and rare achondrites cost much more. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-much-do-meteorites-cost\"\u003eHow much do meteorites cost?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre tektites meteorites?\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Tektites are natural glass formed from terrestrial rock that was melted and ejected by a meteorite impact. They are still scientifically important and very collectible. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/meteor-vs-meteoroid-vs-meteorite-what-s-the-difference\"\u003eMeteor vs meteoroid vs meteorite\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill a magnet stick to a budget meteorite?\u003c\/strong\u003e Most stony and iron meteorites attract a strong magnet because they contain metallic iron-nickel. Tektites and a few achondrites are exceptions. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/are-meteorites-magnetic\"\u003eAre meteorites magnetic?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo budget specimens come with paperwork?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Every piece ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity and a link to its Meteoritical Bulletin record where one exists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSee also: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/iron-meteorites\"\u003eIron meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tektites-impactites\"\u003eTektites and impactites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-meteorites\"\u003eStony meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/types-of-meteorites\"\u003eTypes of meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"laayoune-002-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia","title":"Laâyoune 002 Lunar Meteorite, Feldspathic Breccia, Select Size","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCertified Moon rock in three sizes, each piece a fragment of the lunar highlands\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLaâyoune 002 is a classified lunar meteorite recovered from Western Sahara in 2022. As a feldspathic breccia, it originates from the ancient highland crust of the Moon, the pale, heavily cratered terrain that covers most of the lunar surface and represents some of the oldest crustal material in the solar system. Each specimen is housed in a compact display case with a custom specimen card showing the actual weight of the piece you receive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSelect your size\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach size carries a guaranteed minimum weight. You will receive a specimen at or above the minimum for the size selected. Photos shown are representative examples from actual inventory. Because every piece of lunar breccia is heterogeneous by nature, surface texture, color, and clast distribution vary between specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSize\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMinimum Weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrice\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSmall\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.10g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$35.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMedium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.25g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$40.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLarge\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.50g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$45.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias are among the most geologically complex meteorite types. Breccia describes a rock assembled from fragments of earlier rocks, cemented together by impact-generated heat and pressure. In the case of Laâyoune 002, those fragments are predominantly feldspar-rich material from the lunar highlands, pale, calcium-rich plagioclase that crystallized when the Moon's magma ocean solidified over four billion years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnder magnification, the brecciated texture is immediately apparent: angular clasts of varying size and composition embedded in a fine-grained matrix of crushed and partially melted material. The overall color is light gray to off-white, typical of highland-derived lunar material with low iron and magnesium content relative to mare basalts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites are ejected from the Moon by large impacts that accelerate material above lunar escape velocity. Laâyoune 002 is classified as a lunar feldspathic breccia, placing it among the materials representing the Moon's original anorthositic crust, some of the oldest planetary material recoverable on Earth. This type of lunar material is less common in meteorite collections than mare basalts. Learn more 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. Laâyoune 002 is an officially classified lunar meteorite. See the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=77253\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for Laâyoune 002\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen includes a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic means the rock is dominated by feldspar minerals, specifically the calcium-rich plagioclase that makes up the Moon's ancient highland crust. Breccia means the rock is an impact-assembled mixture of older rock fragments. Together, the classification indicates ancient crustal material shattered and reassembled by repeated impacts over billions of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e Your selected size specimen in a display box, a custom specimen card with the actual weight, and a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCertified lunar material is among the most sought-after specimens in meteorite collecting. Laâyoune 002 offers collectors access to genuine Moon rock at multiple price points, with documented classification and proper certification. The feldspathic breccia classification places it among the older, geologically more complex lunar materials, a meaningful distinction for collectors building a scientifically representative lunar collection. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=77253\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLaâyoune 002\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Western Sahara, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":44733012836399,"sku":"LAAYOUNE-002-0.10G-INDIVIDUAL","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":44733012869167,"sku":"LAAYOUNE-002-0.25G-INDIVIDUAL","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":44733012901935,"sku":"LAAYOUNE-002-0.50G-INDIVIDUAL","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/laayoune-002-lunar-meteorite-slice-display-box-10.heic?v=1779331625"},{"product_id":"nwa-17472-martian-meteorite-rare-fragment-of-mars-shergotitte-w-coa-display-gift-box","title":"NWA 17472 Mars Meteorite, Martian Shergottite, Select Size, in Display Box w\/COA","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA certified fragment of Mars, in three sizes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17472 is a classified Martian shergottite recovered from Northwest Africa in 2024. Shergottites are the most common type of Martian meteorite and represent basaltic igneous rocks that crystallized from magma within the Martian crust or mantle. Every fragment of NWA 17472 is a piece of another planet, material ejected from Mars by a large impact, traveled through space, and fell to Earth. Each specimen is presented in a display box with a custom specimen card showing the actual weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSelect your size\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach size carries a guaranteed minimum weight. You will receive a certified NWA 17472 fragment at or above the minimum weight for the size selected. Photos shown are representative examples from actual inventory, actual specimens vary in shape and surface detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSize\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMinimum Weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrice\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSmall\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.10g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$60.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMedium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.25g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$75.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLarge\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e0.50g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$90.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMartian shergottites typically display a fine to medium crystalline igneous texture, reflecting their origin as basaltic rocks. NWA 17472 shows the characteristic dark matrix and olivine-pyroxene mineralogy common to this group. The exterior surface of uncut fragments often retains fusion crust from atmospheric entry, while cut or broken surfaces reveal the interior igneous texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mineralogy of shergottites is distinctly Martian, the combination of pyroxene compositions, oxygen isotope ratios, and trace element signatures distinguish them from all terrestrial and other extraterrestrial rocks. These signatures have been cross-referenced against data from Mars landers and orbiters, confirming the Martian origin of the shergottite group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShergottites are identified as Martian through trapped noble gas compositions in their minerals that match the Martian atmosphere as measured by NASA's Viking landers. NWA 17472, classified in 2024, adds to the growing catalog of Martian material available for study and collecting. Martian meteorites represent the only samples of another planet available outside of mission-returned material. Learn more 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. NWA 17472 is an officially classified Martian meteorite. See the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA+17472\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for NWA 17472\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from Mars?\u003c\/strong\u003e Shergottites are identified as Martian through trapped noble gas compositions that match the Martian atmosphere as measured by NASA's Viking landers, combined with oxygen isotope ratios and pyroxene compositions that collectively distinguish Martian rocks from all other known meteorite types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e Your selected size specimen in a display box, a custom specimen card with the actual weight, and a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCertified Martian material is among the rarest and most sought-after categories in meteorite collecting. Shergottites account for the vast majority of all known Martian meteorites, but the total known weight of all Martian meteorites combined remains a small fraction of worldwide meteorite holdings. NWA 17472 offers collectors access to genuine Mars material at multiple price points, each piece properly classified and certified. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/martian-meteorites\"\u003eMartian Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA+17472\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17472\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Martian Shergottite | Find, Northwest Africa, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":44733036658735,"sku":"NWA-17472-0.10G-INDIVIDUAL","price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":44733036691503,"sku":"NWA-17472-0.25G-INDIVIDUAL","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":44733036724271,"sku":"NWA-17472-0.50G-INDIVIDUAL","price":90.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/Marsbox_b1aa1312-af54-437e-aff1-d43dde3643e4.jpg?v=1779331145"},{"product_id":"nwa-17707-21-45g-full-slice-ll4-chondrite","title":"NWA 17707 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, LL4, 21.45g, Well-Defined Chondrules","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLow-iron chondrite with preserved spherules\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 21.45g slice preserves the spherical chondrules that define chondrite meteorites. The LL classification denotes low total iron and low metallic iron content compared to other ordinary chondrite groups. Type 4 metamorphism altered the original minerals without destroying the rounded chondrule boundaries that remain visible throughout the specimen. The fine-grained matrix surrounding each chondrule records the conditions under which dust and molten droplets condensed in the solar nebula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17707 was classified in 2024, adding a recently documented specimen to the LL group. The slice format displays the internal structure across a broad surface area, showing how individual chondrules vary in size and composition within the same parent body fragment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eChondrule structure and matrix composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChondrules appear as circular to elliptical domains ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters across. Each formed as a molten droplet that solidified rapidly in the protoplanetary disk before accretion into the parent asteroid. The LL4 petrologic grade indicates these spherules experienced heating between 600 and 700 degrees Celsius, enough to recrystallize olivine and pyroxene while maintaining recognizable chondrule boundaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe groundmass between chondrules contains fine-grained silicate minerals, metal grains, and troilite. Metal content remains lower than in H or L chondrites, giving LL types their characteristic lower density and reduced magnetic response. Dark shock veins may intersect the slice where impact events fractured the parent body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites constitute approximately 80% of all meteorite falls, but the LL group represents only about 10% of that total. These meteorites sample the outer regions of the main asteroid belt where lower iron abundance reflects distance from the inner solar system during planetary formation. The moderate metamorphism preserved in type 4 specimens provides evidence for thermal processing on asteroids too small to differentiate into core-mantle-crust structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChondrules themselves remain one of the most studied features in meteoritics. Their formation mechanism, whether by shock waves, lightning, or other heating events in the solar nebula, continues to drive research into early solar system dynamics. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how these objects preserve records from planetary formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17707 received its classification through analysis submitted to the Meteoritical Society. The Meteoritical Bulletin entry confirms the LL4 ordinary chondrite classification. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does the LL4 classification mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e LL indicates low total iron (19-22%) and low metallic iron (1-3%), distinguishing this group from higher-iron H and L chondrites. The number 4 represents petrologic type, indicating moderate thermal metamorphism that recrystallized minerals while preserving chondrule outlines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 21.45g slice ships with a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy do chondrules matter scientifically?\u003c\/strong\u003e Chondrules froze from molten droplets within the first few million years of solar system history. Their mineral composition and cooling rates provide direct evidence for temperatures, timescales, and processes active in the protoplanetary disk before planets formed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLL chondrites occupy a smaller segment of collections compared to the more common H and L groups, making classified specimens from this series worthwhile additions. The 2024 classification places this material among recently studied falls and finds entering the scientific record. At 21.45g, the slice offers sufficient size to display the chondrule distribution without requiring premium pricing associated with larger slabs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice format suits both desktop display and study under magnification. Collectors building \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e suites can use this specimen to demonstrate the structural differences between ordinary chondrite groups. The visible chondrules provide immediate visual interest compared to more metamorphosed type 5 and 6 specimens where these features blur into homogeneous texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Ordinary Chondrite (LL4) | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748011765807,"sku":"NWA-17707-21.45G-SLICE","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FullSizeRender.heic?v=1765209299"},{"product_id":"nwa-17707-27-61g-full-slice-ll4-chondrite","title":"NWA 17707 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, LL4, 27.61g, Preserved Chondrules","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFull slice exposing ancient solar nebula material\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis complete slice cuts through NWA 17707, exposing the internal structure of a primitive ordinary chondrite. Rounded chondrules stand out against the darker matrix material, representing droplets of molten rock that solidified in the solar nebula before planets formed. The slice format reveals the distribution and size variation of these spherical structures throughout the specimen, providing a window into the earliest stages of planetary formation. At 27.61g, this full slice captures a representative cross-section of the meteorite's internal composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe natural contrast between lighter chondrules and darker matrix creates visual depth across the polished surface. Individual chondrules range from sub-millimeter to several millimeters in diameter, each preserving a record of rapid cooling in the protoplanetary disk. The slice maintains structural integrity while revealing the meteorite's internal architecture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe LL4 classification reflects two defining characteristics visible in this specimen. The LL designation indicates low total iron content (19-22% by mass) and low metallic iron, distinguishing this meteorite from the more iron-rich H and L ordinary chondrite groups. The type 4 petrologic grade indicates moderate thermal metamorphism, enough heat to alter some mineral structures while preserving the original chondrule boundaries. Chondrules remain distinct and easily visible rather than being integrated into a more homogeneous matrix that would characterize higher metamorphic grades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished surface reveals olivine and pyroxene crystals within the chondrules, surrounded by fine-grained matrix material. Metal flakes appear as small bright inclusions distributed throughout the slice. The chondrule boundaries show clear delineation, a diagnostic feature of type 4 metamorphism that distinguishes this specimen from more heavily altered types 5 and 6.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17707 belongs to the ordinary chondrite group, the most abundant meteorite type in collections but each fall providing distinct scientific value. Ordinary chondrites formed in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter approximately 4.567 billion years ago, predating Earth's formation. The LL group specifically derives from parent bodies with depleted iron content compared to other ordinary chondrites, suggesting formation in a different region of the protoplanetary disk where oxygen fugacity was higher.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe type 4 metamorphic grade indicates the parent asteroid experienced internal heating sufficient to reach temperatures between 600-700°C, likely from decay of short-lived radioactive isotopes like aluminum-26. This heating occurred within the first few million years after solar system formation. Despite this thermal processing, the original chondrule structures survived, making LL4 specimens valuable for studying both nebular condensation processes and early asteroid thermal evolution. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context on chondrite classification and formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17707 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an LL4 ordinary chondrite. You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting the classification, weight, and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does LL4 classification mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e The first L indicates low total iron content (19-22% by weight). The second L indicates low metallic iron content specifically. The number 4 represents the petrologic type, showing the meteorite experienced moderate thermal metamorphism, enough heat to alter mineral chemistry while preserving visible chondrule boundaries. This distinguishes it from type 3 (unmetamorphosed) and types 5-6 (higher metamorphism with integrated chondrules).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 27.61g full slice and a certificate of authenticity. The specimen does not include a display stand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are chondrules scientifically significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e Chondrules are the oldest solid materials in the solar system, forming within the first few million years after the Sun ignited. They condensed directly from the solar nebula as molten droplets, then cooled rapidly before being incorporated into asteroids. Each chondrule preserves information about temperature, oxygen fugacity, and chemical conditions in the protoplanetary disk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLL chondrites represent only 10-11% of ordinary chondrite falls, making them less common than H and L groups in collections. The type 4 metamorphic grade occupies a middle position in the petrologic sequence, showing more textural interest than highly metamorphosed types 5-6 while displaying more mineral equilibration than primitive type 3 specimens. This balance makes LL4 specimens particularly educational for understanding metamorphic progression in asteroid interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 recovery date places NWA 17707 among recent Saharan finds, with classification completed and published within the past year. Full slices provide optimal display format for chondrites, revealing internal structure that remains hidden in exterior-only specimens. The weight falls in a range suitable for detailed examination while remaining accessible to collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ordinary-chondrites\"\u003eOrdinary Chondrite\u003c\/a\u003e reference sets across the H, L, and LL groups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Ordinary Chondrite (LL4) | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748014518319,"sku":"NWA-17707-27.61G-SLICE","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FullSizeRender_483e0e2e-49b7-40a2-8a64-f4120e41ae50.heic?v=1765210022"},{"product_id":"nwa-17707-30-37g-full-slice-ll4-chondrite","title":"NWA 17707 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, LL4, 30.37g, Preserved Chondrules","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFull cross-section of low-iron chondrite\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 30.37g slice captures a complete cross-section through NWA 17707, an LL4 ordinary chondrite classified in 2024. The specimen displays abundant chondrules distributed throughout the matrix, preserved in their original arrangement from 4.5 billion years ago. Light-colored spherules contrast against the darker groundmass, creating a visual record of the solar nebula's earliest solid materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice format exposes internal structure that remains hidden in exterior specimens. Chondrule boundaries appear sharp where thermal metamorphism stopped short of complete recrystallization. The LL designation indicates low total iron and low metal content compared to other ordinary chondrites, while the type 4 classification marks the threshold where these primitive structures begin to blur but have not yet disappeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eChondrule preservation and matrix structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndividual chondrules range from sub-millimeter to several millimeters across this section. The type 4 metamorphic grade means these spherules retain their boundaries and internal textures, though secondary minerals have begun to homogenize between grains. This intermediate state makes LL4 chondrites valuable for studying the transition from unaltered to thermally processed material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe matrix between chondrules shows fine-grained minerals that recrystallized under heat while the parent asteroid remained intact. This metamorphism occurred through radioactive decay and impact events, not atmospheric entry. The slice reveals this heating was sufficient to alter mineral chemistry but insufficient to destroy the fundamental architecture of these ancient droplets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites like NWA 17707 formed from dust and molten droplets in the solar nebula before planets existed. The LL group contains less metallic iron than H or L chondrites, suggesting formation in a region of the asteroid belt where metal condensation was limited. Type 4 samples occupy a middle ground in the petrologic sequence, which runs from type 3 (least heated) to type 6 (most metamorphosed without melting).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe low metal content affects both appearance and density. LL chondrites typically show muted colors compared to their iron-rich relatives, and they lack the metallic flecks that dominate H chondrite surfaces. This composition reflects local conditions in the protoplanetary disk where temperature and pressure determined which materials could condense into solid form. Understanding these variations helps reconstruct the chemical gradient that existed across the early solar system. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context for how classification systems organize these ancient materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17707 received official classification as an LL4 ordinary chondrite and appears in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. You can verify this classification at the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for NWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does LL4 mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e The first L indicates low total iron content, the second L means low metallic iron specifically, and 4 represents the petrologic type indicating moderate thermal metamorphism. This combination describes both composition and thermal history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 30.37g meteorite slice and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included unless specifically noted in the product images.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are chondrules important?\u003c\/strong\u003e Chondrules are the oldest processed materials in the solar system, frozen droplets that formed when dust melted and rapidly cooled in the solar nebula. Their presence proves this meteorite has not been significantly melted since that time, preserving a direct sample of pre-planetary material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFull slices expose interior structure that exterior fragments cannot show. This specimen presents chondrules across its entire face, offering more visual interest than partial sections or fragments where primitive features may be limited to small areas. The 30.37g size provides substantial display presence while remaining accessible compared to larger examples.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 classification makes this a recent addition to the meteorite catalog. Collectors seeking current finds with fresh documentation will find NWA 17707 fits that category. The LL classification is less common than H chondrites in the NWA series, adding compositional diversity to collections focused on ordinary chondrite varieties. Browse additional examples in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection to compare LL, L, and H types side by side.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Ordinary Chondrite (LL4) | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748020187183,"sku":"NWA-17707-30.37G-SLICE","price":90.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FullSizeRender_06a83c14-9557-4818-83a8-2a3b3fd60ad9.heic?v=1765210501"},{"product_id":"nwa-17707-27-29-full-slice-ll4-chondrite","title":"NWA 17707 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, LL4, 27.29g, Complete Cross Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFull cross section reveals primordial architecture\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis complete slice exposes the internal structure of NWA 17707 across its entire 27.29g profile. The polished surface reveals chondrules distributed throughout the meteorite's cross section, preserved within a fine-grained matrix that records conditions from the earliest epoch of the solar system. The LL designation reflects the low total iron and low metal content characteristic of this chemical group, while the type 4 classification indicates thermal processing sufficient to partially recrystallize the matrix without destroying the spherical chondrule structures that formed in the solar nebula.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFound in Algeria in 2024, this specimen represents recently classified material available to collectors while scientific analysis continues. The full slice format provides the maximum viewable area for a specimen of this mass, making chondrule distribution patterns visible across the meteorite's natural dimensions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eChondrules appear as lighter circular and elliptical structures against the darker groundmass, ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters in diameter. These spherules formed as molten droplets in the solar nebula before accretion into the parent asteroid. The type 4 metamorphic grade indicates heating to approximately 600-700°C on the parent body, sufficient to cause partial equilibration of minerals while preserving chondrule boundaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe low metal content typical of LL chondrites results in reduced reflectivity compared to H or L group chondrites. Metal grains present in the matrix appear as small, scattered reflective points rather than the continuous networks seen in higher metal groups. The matrix shows moderate recrystallization, with individual mineral grains visible under magnification but not the complete recrystallization that would characterize higher petrologic types.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLL chondrites derive from a distinct parent asteroid separate from the sources of H and L group ordinary chondrites. Oxygen isotope ratios confirm this separation, though all ordinary chondrite groups formed in similar regions of the early solar system. The type 4 classification places this specimen in a transitional stage between pristine type 3 material and heavily metamorphosed type 6, providing insight into thermal processes within small asteroids during the first tens of millions of years after solar system formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites constitute approximately 87% of all observed meteorite falls, making them the most common meteorite type reaching Earth. However, recently classified specimens like NWA 17707 expand the available sample set for comparative studies. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how chondrules and matrix components record conditions in the protoplanetary disk 4.567 billion years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17707 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an LL4 ordinary chondrite. Official classification data: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17707 MetBull entry\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does LL4 mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e LL indicates low total iron (19-22% by mass) and low metal content (1-3% metallic iron), the most iron-depleted of the ordinary chondrite groups. The number 4 represents the petrologic type on a scale from 3 (unmetamorphosed) to 6 (extensively recrystallized), indicating moderate thermal processing at temperatures around 600-700°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 27.29g meteorite slice and certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy do chondrules form spherical shapes?\u003c\/strong\u003e Chondrules crystallized from molten droplets that achieved spherical geometry through surface tension while floating freely in the solar nebula. Rapid cooling preserved their spherical form before incorporation into the growing asteroid. The preservation of these structures through 4.5 billion years demonstrates that this material never experienced temperatures sufficient to remelt after initial accretion.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFull slice format maximizes scientific utility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eComplete slices offer collectors the ability to observe compositional variations across an entire meteorite profile rather than the limited view provided by partial sections or end cuts. This specimen's 27.29g mass represents substantial material for a full slice, providing viewing area comparable to specimens several times heavier when sold as fragments. The \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection includes specimens across all petrologic types, allowing comparison between primitive and metamorphosed examples from related parent bodies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLL chondrites remain underrepresented in many collections despite their scientific significance in establishing the compositional range of ordinary chondrite parent bodies. Recent finds from Northwest Africa continue to expand the available sample diversity, with classification work identifying compositional and textural variations that refine models of asteroid thermal evolution. For collectors focusing on ordinary chondrites, specimens representing all three chemical groups (H, L, LL) document the compositional gradient across the asteroid belt region where these objects formed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017707\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17707\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Ordinary Chondrite (LL4) | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748028706863,"sku":"NWA-17707-27.29G-SLICE","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FullSizeRender_05c0d640-5911-4267-aafc-75eb2b03ed4a.heic?v=1765210867"},{"product_id":"gebel-kamil-iron-meteorite-ungrouped-ataxite-from-egypt-in-acrylic-display-box-w-coa","title":"Gebel Kamil Iron Meteorite, Ungrouped Ataxite, Select Size, in Acrylic Gift Box w\/COA","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA genuine iron meteorite from the Egyptian desert, in three sizes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGebel Kamil is one of the most well-documented iron meteorite finds of the modern era. Discovered in 2009 in the Egyptian Sahara after being identified in satellite imagery, it produced thousands of individuals ranging from sub-gram fragments to pieces exceeding ten kilograms. Each specimen is a dense, metallic fragment of an asteroid that impacted Earth relatively recently in geological terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSelect your size\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach size carries a guaranteed minimum weight. You will receive a specimen at or above the minimum for the size selected. Photos shown are representative examples from actual inventory, every piece varies slightly in shape and surface detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSize\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMinimum Weight\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003ePrice\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSmall\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e1.00g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$10.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMedium\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e2.00g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$15.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLarge\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3.00g\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e$20.00\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGebel Kamil is classified as an ungrouped ataxite, an iron meteorite with such a high nickel content that it does not develop the Widmanstatten pattern seen in lower-nickel irons. Instead, the internal structure is dominated by fine-grained taenite, a nickel-iron mineral that gives the metal a smooth, homogeneous appearance in cross-section. At approximately 20% nickel by weight, Gebel Kamil sits at the high end of the nickel range for iron meteorites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExternally, the specimens show the natural surface texture formed during atmospheric entry and subsequent weathering in the Egyptian desert. Regmaglypts, thumb-print-like depressions formed by ablation during flight, are often visible even on small fragments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUngrouped iron meteorites like Gebel Kamil do not fit cleanly into any of the established chemical groups defined by trace element composition. This makes them scientifically significant, they likely sample parent bodies not represented by the major iron meteorite groups. Gebel Kamil's high nickel content and ataxitic structure suggest an origin in a small, rapidly cooled metallic body. The associated impact crater is approximately 45 meters in diameter and is one of the youngest confirmed meteorite craters on Earth. Learn more about iron 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. Gebel Kamil is an officially classified meteorite. See the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Gebel+Kamil\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for Gebel Kamil\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does ungrouped ataxite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ungrouped means the meteorite does not match the chemical fingerprint of any established iron meteorite group, it likely comes from a unique parent body. Ataxite refers to the internal structure: with very high nickel content, no Widmanstatten pattern forms, resulting in a fine-grained homogeneous metal texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e Your selected size specimen in an acrylic gift box, plus a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGebel Kamil is one of the few iron meteorites with a confirmed, documented impact crater. That provenance, a known fall location, a visible crater, satellite-confirmed discovery, makes it historically significant beyond its classification. For collectors looking for an accessible entry point into iron meteorites, or an affordable gift for someone interested in space science, Gebel Kamil offers genuine scientific value at an approachable price point. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/iron-meteorites\"\u003eIron Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Gebel+Kamil\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGebel Kamil\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Iron (ungrouped, ataxite) | Find, Egypt, 2009\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":44751913844783,"sku":"GEBEL-KAMIL-1.00G-INDIVIDUAL","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":44751913877551,"sku":"GEBEL-KAMIL-2.00G-INDIVIDUAL","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":44751913910319,"sku":"GEBEL-KAMIL-3.00G-INDIVIDUAL","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6915.heic?v=1765326358"},{"product_id":"bir-ounane-001-achondrite-prim-ungrouped-slice-w-coa-6-46g-rare-1-of-16-classifications","title":"Bir Ounane 001 Achondrite-prim Meteorite Slice, Ungrouped, 6.46g, Polished Primitive Crust","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive achondrite from early planetary evolution\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 6.46g polished slice captures material from the earliest stages of planetary differentiation. Bir Ounane 001 represents a transitional state between chondritic and fully differentiated material, preserving textures from incomplete melting and separation processes that occurred in the solar system's first million years. The polished surface reveals the fine-grained matrix and subtle mineral variations characteristic of primitive achondrites, offering direct evidence of how planetesimals evolved from undifferentiated rock into layered worlds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClassified as Achondrite-prim with no established group affiliation, this meteorite occupies a scientific middle ground. The specimen shows neither the chondrule-rich structure of primitive chondrites nor the clean crystalline texture of fully evolved achondrites. Instead, the slice displays a complex assemblage that records partial differentiation, the interrupted transformation of primordial material under thermal and gravitational forces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished surface exposes a fine-grained groundmass punctuated by mineralogical variations that reflect incomplete separation of silicate phases. Unlike the coarse crystals seen in eucrites or the metallic networks of differentiated bodies, this slice shows textural heterogeneity consistent with material that experienced heating sufficient to begin recrystallization but insufficient to complete planetary layering. Small-scale variations in reflectivity across the polish indicate compositional gradients frozen during early thermal processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice preparation emphasizes these subtle structural details. Polishing reveals mineral boundaries and melt features that would remain invisible in a natural state specimen. The thin profile allows transmitted light examination, though the opacity and fine grain size limit this technique compared to thinner petrographic sections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrimitive achondrites represent a rare window into interrupted differentiation. While most meteorite parent bodies either remained completely primitive (chondrites) or differentiated fully into core-mantle-crust structures (producing irons, stony-irons, and evolved achondrites), a small population of bodies experienced intermediate thermal histories. Bir Ounane 001 belongs to this scientifically valuable category, showing evidence of metamorphism and partial melting without complete magmatic processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ungrouped classification indicates this material does not match the chemical or isotopic signatures of established meteorite clans. Among approximately 75,000 classified meteorites, only sixteen carry the Achondrite-prim designation, placing Bir Ounane 001 within an exceptionally small statistical cohort. This scarcity reflects both the rarity of primitive achondrite parent bodies and the difficulty of recognizing these meteorites in the field, where their appearance can resemble terrestrial rocks. Collectors seeking comprehensive representation of meteorite diversity will find this classification essential, as it documents a transitional stage that most solar system bodies bypassed entirely. For broader meteorite classification context, see \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Bir Ounane 001 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as Achondrite-prim (ungrouped). You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bir%20Ounane%20001\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 status.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Achondrite-prim mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e The designation indicates a primitive achondrite, a meteorite that experienced thermal processing beyond the chondritic state but did not undergo complete differentiation into distinct planetary layers. These meteorites preserve evidence of early, incomplete melting and recrystallization that occurred during planetesimal formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this meteorite ungrouped?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ungrouped status means Bir Ounane 001's chemical and isotopic composition does not match any established meteorite group. This classification reflects either a unique parent body or insufficient material for comprehensive analysis. Ungrouped meteorites often represent small asteroids that contributed few specimens to Earth's meteorite collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 6.46g polished slice and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included unless separately confirmed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow rare are primitive achondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Extremely rare. Only sixteen meteorites carry the Achondrite-prim classification among tens of thousands of classified falls and finds. This scarcity makes specimens from this group particularly valuable for comprehensive meteorite collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBir Ounane 001 addresses a specific gap in systematic meteorite collections. Most collectors accumulate representatives of common chondrite groups and familiar achondrites like eucrites and diogenites, but primitive achondrites receive disproportionately little attention despite their scientific importance. The sixteen-meteorite cohort means acquiring any Achondrite-prim specimen requires deliberate effort, these do not appear regularly in dealer inventories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 6.46g slice offers entry into primitive achondrite collecting at an accessible size. The polished preparation maximizes visibility of internal features while maintaining a specimen large enough for clear visual examination without magnification. For collectors building taxonomically complete collections, this piece fills a classification slot that may not appear again for months or years. Those focusing specifically on ungrouped meteorites or early differentiation processes will find this specimen directly relevant to both themes. Explore related differentiated specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ungrouped-achondrites\"\u003eUngrouped Achondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection, or examine other primitive material in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-meteorites\"\u003eStony Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bir%20Ounane%20001\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBir Ounane 001\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Achondrite-prim | Find, Mali, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755658506287,"sku":"BIR-OUNANE-001-6.46G-SLICE","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/bir-ounane-001.png?v=1780155729"},{"product_id":"nwa-12009-ll3-ordinary-chondrite-slice-16-91g","title":"NWA 12009 LL3 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, 16.91g, Primitive Unequilibrated Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive solar system material preserved in stone\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 16.91g slice captures the unequilibrated texture characteristic of Type 3 chondrites, where individual chondrules retain their distinct boundaries and compositions rather than blending into a homogeneous matrix. The polished surface reveals the internal architecture of this primitive material, showing spherical silicate structures suspended in fine-grained matrix. The low-iron composition distinguishes LL chondrites from their higher-metal counterparts, affecting both the visual appearance and the scientific significance of specimens like this one.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNorthwest Africa yields numerous ordinary chondrite finds, but specimens classified as Type 3 represent a minority. The preservation state reflected in this classification makes NWA 12009 valuable for understanding conditions in the early solar nebula before thermal metamorphism altered the original chondritic structure. The slice format provides access to interior features while maintaining structural integrity across the cut surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eChondrule structure and matrix composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 classification indicates minimal thermal processing after the initial formation of chondrules in the solar nebula. Individual chondrules show varying sizes and textures, reflecting different formation conditions for each spherical inclusion. The matrix surrounding these chondrules contains fine-grained silicate material that has not undergone the recrystallization seen in higher petrologic types. Boundaries between chondrules and matrix remain sharp rather than gradational.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe LL designation reflects iron content below 19% by total mass and very low metal abundance compared to other ordinary chondrite groups. This compositional difference affects the specimen's density, magnetic properties, and visual characteristics. Metal grains present in the matrix appear as small scattered inclusions rather than the more abundant distribution seen in H or L chondrites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites represent the most abundant meteorite type in collections worldwide, yet Type 3 specimens constitute only a fraction of observed falls. The unequilibrated nature of LL3 chondrites preserves information about solar nebula processes that operated approximately 4.56 billion years ago. Chondrules formed through rapid melting and cooling of dust particles in the protoplanetary disk, creating the spherical structures now frozen in the meteorite matrix.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe LL parent body experienced less thermal alteration than the parent bodies of equilibrated ordinary chondrites. This lower degree of metamorphism allowed original textures and mineral compositions to persist rather than homogenizing under elevated temperatures. Scientists study Type 3 chondrites to understand the initial building blocks of planetesimals and the conditions present during the earliest stages of solar system formation. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to explore the broader context of chondritic materials and their role in planetary science research.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 12009 is officially classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an LL3 ordinary chondrite. The Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2012009\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 12009\u003c\/a\u003e documents the classification, find circumstances, and petrologic characteristics. Each specimen includes a certificate of authenticity verifying its classification and origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does unequilibrated mean in meteorite classification?\u003c\/strong\u003e Type 3 chondrites are unequilibrated, meaning their mineral compositions vary from one chondrule to another rather than achieving chemical uniformity. This preservation of original heterogeneity indicates the parent body never heated sufficiently to allow minerals to equilibrate into consistent compositions throughout the rock. Higher petrologic types (4-6) show increasing degrees of thermal metamorphism and mineral equilibration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The listing includes the 16.91g polished slice and a certificate of authenticity documenting the classification and meteorite name. No display stand is included unless specifically noted in the product variant details.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does the LL group differ from other ordinary chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e The LL group contains less than 19% total iron and very low metal content compared to L chondrites (20-25% iron) and H chondrites (25-31% iron). This compositional difference reflects distinct formation regions or conditions in the solar nebula. LL chondrites also show lower magnetic susceptibility due to reduced metal abundance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I see chondrules on this polished slice?\u003c\/strong\u003e The polished surface reveals chondrule outlines and internal textures where the cutting plane intersects these spherical structures. Not all chondrules appear as perfect circles since the slice captures random cross-sections through the three-dimensional distribution of chondrules within the matrix. Viewing angle and lighting affect the visibility of individual features.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBuilding a chondrite collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 ordinary chondrites occupy a specific niche in meteorite collections due to their primitive character and relatively limited availability compared to equilibrated types. The 16.91g mass provides sufficient surface area to examine chondrule textures while remaining accessible for collectors establishing reference collections of major meteorite groups. The slice format allows direct observation of internal structure without compromising the specimen through aggressive preparation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLL chondrites represent one of the three major ordinary chondrite groups, making specimens like NWA 12009 useful for comparative study alongside H and L group examples. The polished finish enhances visibility of internal features while preserving the specimen for long-term display and examination. Collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collections value Type 3 specimens for their distinct petrologic properties and scientific significance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2012009\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 12009\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: LL3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Northwest Africa, 2017\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755660832815,"sku":"NWA-12009-16.91G-SLICE","price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6941.heic?v=1765428407"},{"product_id":"nwa-17496-l3-ordinary-chondrite-end-cut-in-riker-display-w-coa-21-75g","title":"NWA 17496 L3 Chondrite Meteorite End Cut, 21.75g, Riker Display Case, Primitive Unequilibrated","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive solar system material in display-ready format\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 21.75g polished end cut from NWA 17496 exposes the internal architecture of an L3 ordinary chondrite recovered from Algeria in 2024. The polished surface reveals well-preserved chondrules suspended in a fine-grained matrix, documenting conditions in the early solar nebula before planetary differentiation began. The end cut geometry provides a cross-sectional view through the meteorite's structure while preserving the natural exterior along the specimen's edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe included riker display case positions this specimen for immediate presentation without requiring additional mounting hardware. The shallow case depth and transparent cover protect the polished surface while maintaining visual access to the chondrule distribution and matrix textures that characterize primitive chondritic material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eChondrule preservation and matrix structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe polished face displays individual chondrules ranging from sub-millimeter to several millimeters in diameter, each representing a discrete melting event in the solar nebula 4.567 billion years ago. The Type 3 classification confirms these spherules retain their original compositions and boundaries without the thermal metamorphism that would homogenize their chemistry in higher petrologic types.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe matrix surrounding the chondrules consists of fine-grained silicate minerals, metal grains, and sulfides that accreted in the cooler regions of the protoplanetary disk. This unequilibrated texture preserves chemical and mineralogical gradients that were erased in more thermally processed meteorites, making L3 chondrites valuable records of nebular conditions before parent body assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eL chondrites formed in the asteroid belt from material that accreted before planets completed their growth. The \"L\" designation indicates low total iron content (19-22% by mass) compared to H and LL chondrite groups, reflecting formation in a region of the nebula with reduced metal abundance. Type 3 specimens like NWA 17496 experienced minimal heating after accretion, preserving original textures that were destroyed in chondrites that underwent parent body metamorphism.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe preservation of distinct chondrules and unequilibrated mineral compositions makes Type 3 chondrites critical for understanding nebular processes. These specimens retain isotopic and chemical heterogeneities present in the earliest solid materials, providing constraints on the temperature, pressure, and timescales of dust aggregation in the protoplanetary disk. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e for additional context on chondrite formation and classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17496 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an L3 ordinary chondrite. You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"unequilibrated\" mean for Type 3 chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Unequilibrated indicates the meteorite never experienced temperatures high enough to homogenize the chemical compositions of its minerals. Individual chondrules retain distinct compositions, and olivine grains show variable iron-magnesium ratios rather than the uniform chemistry seen in equilibrated (Type 4-6) chondrites. This preservation of original chemical gradients makes Type 3 specimens valuable for studying nebular conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 21.75g polished end cut presented in a protective riker display case and a certificate of authenticity confirming the classification and specimen details.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does the L group differ from H and LL chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e The L (low iron) group contains 19-22% total iron by mass, intermediate between the H (high iron, 25-31%) and LL (low iron, low metal, 10-19%) groups. This iron content reflects the oxidation state and metal abundance in the nebular region where L chondrite parent bodies formed, approximately 2.8 AU from the sun based on orbital mechanics of recovered L chondrite falls.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDisplay-ready specimen for collectors and educators\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe polished end cut format optimizes visibility of internal structures while the riker case provides immediate display capability without additional preparation. The 21.75g mass represents a size that clearly shows chondrule distribution and matrix textures without requiring magnification for initial examination, though detailed inspection reveals additional fine-scale features.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 chondrites occupy a specific position in collections focused on primitive materials or systematic representations of chondrite petrologic types. The unequilibrated nature of this specimen contrasts with the metamorphosed textures of higher-type ordinary chondrites, illustrating the range of thermal histories experienced by asteroidal parent bodies. Browse additional primitive specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: L3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755671613487,"sku":"NWA-17496-21.75G-ENDCUT","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6956.heic?v=1765429585"},{"product_id":"nwa-17496-l3-ordinary-chondrite-end-cut-in-riker-display-w-coa-21-75g-copy","title":"NWA 17496 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite Slice, L3, 8.10g, Preserved Chondrules in Riker Display","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive solar system material in display-ready presentation\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 8.10g slice of NWA 17496 preserves the unequilibrated texture characteristic of Type 3 chondrites. The polished face reveals individual chondrules suspended in a matrix that retains the chemical and mineralogical diversity present when this rock formed 4.6 billion years ago. The specimen arrives in a professional riker display case with foam backing and clear lid, ready for immediate display or study. The L group designation indicates moderate iron content relative to other ordinary chondrites, while the Type 3 classification confirms minimal thermal alteration since accretion in the early solar nebula.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice format provides access to the internal structure while the riker case protects the specimen from handling and atmospheric exposure. This combination suits collectors seeking displayable specimens and educators demonstrating chondrite classification to students.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eChondrule preservation and matrix structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 chondrites retain clearly defined boundaries between chondrules and matrix, unlike their more thermally processed Type 4-6 counterparts where these features blur or disappear entirely. Individual chondrules in this specimen show the spherical to sub-spherical forms created by flash heating events in the solar nebula. The polished surface allows direct observation of these structures without magnification, though additional detail emerges under loupe examination.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe matrix surrounding the chondrules contains fine-grained silicate minerals, metal grains, and sulfides in their original spatial relationships. This preservation provides a record of conditions in the asteroid belt before planetary differentiation began.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eL ordinary chondrites represent approximately 38% of observed meteorite falls, making them the second most common chondrite group after H types. The moderate iron content distinguishes them chemically from the high-iron H group and low-iron LL group. NWA 17496 belongs to the primitive end of the metamorphic sequence where original nebular materials remain largely unaltered by parent body processes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Type 3 classification indicates peak metamorphic temperatures below 400°C on the parent asteroid, insufficient to homogenize mineral compositions or erase chondrule boundaries. This preservation allows researchers to study the raw materials that accreted to form asteroids and, eventually, planets. The specimen documents conditions in the region of the solar nebula where ordinary chondrite parent bodies formed, approximately 2-3 AU from the proto-Sun. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context on chondrite formation and classification systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17496 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an L3 ordinary chondrite. View the official entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e. Each specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting the classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Type 3 mean in chondrite classification?\u003c\/strong\u003e Type 3 indicates the lowest degree of thermal metamorphism in the petrologic type scale (3-6). These specimens preserve original chondrule textures, distinct mineral boundaries, and unequilibrated chemistry from the solar nebula. Higher types show progressively more thermal alteration and homogenization.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 8.10g slice arrives mounted in a professional riker display case with protective foam backing and clear viewing lid. A certificate of authenticity documents the classification and specimen details.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I display this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The riker case provides complete display protection and requires no additional mounting. Position away from direct sunlight to prevent foam degradation. The case dimensions allow vertical or horizontal display on shelving or in cabinets.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes L chondrites different from H and LL types?\u003c\/strong\u003e The L (low iron) designation indicates total iron content of 20-25% by mass, intermediate between H group (25-31%) and LL group (19-22%). This chemical distinction reflects formation in different regions of the asteroid belt with varying metal abundances in the local nebula.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eType 3 chondrites in meteorite collections\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePrimitive chondrites serve as baseline specimens in systematic collections, representing the least-processed materials available from the early solar system. The 8.10g mass provides sufficient size for clear chondrule observation while remaining accessible to collectors building comprehensive ordinary chondrite suites. The riker presentation eliminates the need for separate mounting or display cases.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 recovery date indicates recent availability on the market, with classification completed through standard Meteoritical Society protocols. Algeria continues to produce significant numbers of meteorite finds due to favorable preservation conditions in the Sahara, though each specimen undergoes individual classification rather than provisional grouping. Collectors seeking \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/budget-friendly-pieces\"\u003eBudget Friendly Pieces\u003c\/a\u003e will find this specimen meets both display and study requirements without premium pricing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: L3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755672039471,"sku":"NWA-17496-8.10G-ENDCUT","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6960.heic?v=1765430204"},{"product_id":"nwa-17496-l3-ordinary-chondrite-slice-in-riker-display-w-coa-10-33g","title":"NWA 17496 L3 Chondrite Meteorite Slice, 10.33g, Riker Display, Preserved Chondrules","description":"\u003ch2\u003eChondrules frozen in time\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 10.33g polished slice of NWA 17496 reveals the defining feature of primitive chondrites: spherical chondrules scattered throughout the matrix. These millimeter-scale silicate spheres formed as molten droplets in the early solar nebula 4.6 billion years ago, cooling rapidly in space before accreting into the parent asteroid. The Type 3 classification indicates minimal thermal alteration, preserving the original textures and mineralogy from the solar system's formative period. The polish exposes chondrule boundaries, internal structure, and the fine-grained matrix that binds them.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eL chondrites derive their designation from low total iron content compared to H chondrites, with approximately 7-11% total iron and reduced metal abundance. This specimen shows the characteristic light gray matrix punctuated by darker chondrules and occasional metal grains. The slice format maximizes the visible cross-sections of chondrules, displaying their varied internal textures from barred to radial pyroxene structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTextural preservation and surface detail\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe polished surface treatment brings structural clarity to this primitive meteorite. Individual chondrules appear as circular to elliptical features depending on the plane of the cut, with diameters ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters. The matrix between chondrules contains fine-grained olivine and pyroxene crystals that never experienced significant recrystallization. Metal grains appear as bright reflective points scattered through the groundmass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 chondrites occupy a critical position in meteorite classification as the least thermally processed specimens. Unlike Types 4-6, which experienced progressive heating on their parent bodies, Type 3 specimens retain heterogeneous mineral compositions within individual chondrules and preserve volatile elements that would have been lost at higher temperatures. This makes them valuable for understanding pre-accretionary processes in the solar nebula.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites constitute approximately 80% of observed meteorite falls, yet each specimen provides data points for understanding differentiation processes in the early solar system. The L chondrite parent body, an asteroid in the main belt, experienced a catastrophic collision approximately 470 million years ago that scattered fragments throughout the inner solar system. This event dramatically increased the flux of L chondrite material reaching Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Type 3 designation reflects petrologic grade determined by homogeneity of olivine and pyroxene compositions, with Type 3 showing the widest compositional ranges within individual mineral grains. Chondrules themselves record flash heating events in the solar nebula, with formation temperatures exceeding 1500°C followed by cooling rates of hundreds of degrees per hour. The variety of chondrule textures visible in cross-section reflects different thermal histories and precursor compositions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how classification systems organize these specimens by composition and thermal history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17496 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an L3 ordinary chondrite found in Algeria in 2024. You can verify the classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting the classification and weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes Type 3 chondrites scientifically important?\u003c\/strong\u003e Type 3 represents the most primitive thermal grade, preserving original solar nebula materials with minimal parent body processing. Higher types (4-6) experienced increasing metamorphism that homogenized minerals and destroyed primary textures. Type 3 specimens retain the chemical and structural diversity present when the parent asteroid first formed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 10.33g meteorite slice, professional riker display case for protected viewing, and certificate of authenticity. The riker case features a glass top and foam backing for secure specimen presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I see individual chondrules without magnification?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, several chondrules are visible to the naked eye as circular features in the polished surface. A hand lens or magnification will reveal finer structural details including chondrule rim boundaries, internal crystal textures, and matrix composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between L and H chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e The letter designation refers to total iron content and metal abundance. L (low iron) chondrites contain 20-25% total iron with 4-10% metal, while H (high iron) chondrites contain 25-31% total iron with 15-19% metal. This affects both magnetic properties and visual appearance, with L chondrites showing less metallic luster.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDisplay-ready primitive material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe riker case presentation eliminates the need for additional mounting or framing. The slice sits securely in foam backing behind glass, ready for shelf or desk display. At 10.33g, this represents a substantial cross-section for observing chondrule distribution and matrix characteristics. The polished finish provides immediate visual access to internal structure without requiring specialized lighting.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor collectors building systematic reference collections, L3 specimens fill a specific niche documenting primitive, low-iron ordinary chondrite material. The 2024 find date makes this recently classified material with fresh market availability. The combination of scientific accessibility and display readiness makes this suitable for both educational reference and private collections. Browse additional primitive specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection to compare textural characteristics across different chemical groups and petrologic types.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: L3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755673972783,"sku":"NWA-17496-10.33G-SLICE","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6964.heic?v=1765430459"},{"product_id":"nwa-17496-l3-ordinary-chondrite-end-cut-in-riker-display-w-coa-13-23","title":"NWA 17496 Chondrite Meteorite End Cut, L3, 17.40g, Preserved Chondrules in Riker Display","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive solar system building blocks on display\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 17.40g polished end cut exposes the internal structure of NWA 17496, a Type 3 ordinary chondrite classified in 2024. The polished surface reveals spherical chondrules, submillimeter droplets of once-molten silicate that condensed in the solar nebula 4.567 billion years ago. Type 3 specimens retain their original textures with minimal thermal alteration, making chondrule boundaries distinct and their internal structures visible. The cut preserves the contrast between these spherical components and the fine-grained matrix surrounding them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen arrives in a professional riker display case with foam backing and clear lid, ready for shelf display or educational demonstration. The case protects the polished surface while keeping structural features visible without handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe L3 classification denotes a low total iron content (19-22% by mass) compared to other ordinary chondrite groups, with approximately 7-11% metallic iron-nickel distributed throughout. As an unequilibrated Type 3 specimen, this meteorite shows compositional variation between individual chondrules, each preserves its formation chemistry rather than homogenizing through parent body heating. The polished surface exposes chondrule margins where olivine and pyroxene grains meet the darker, finer matrix. Metal grains appear as bright flecks scattered through the section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnd cuts like this one section the meteorite perpendicular to any natural face, revealing internal structure rather than weathered exterior. The polish grade brings out textural detail while maintaining scientific integrity, the slice remains thick enough to show three-dimensional chondrule distribution rather than presenting only a thin section view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrdinary chondrites constitute approximately 87% of all meteorite falls and represent material from numerous parent asteroids in the main belt between Mars and Jupiter. The L group, distinguished by lower iron content than H chondrites but higher than LL types, likely derives from several related parent bodies disrupted by collisions over solar system history. Type 3 classification indicates peak metamorphic temperatures remained below 600°C, insufficient to erase original chondrule textures or equilibrate mineral compositions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17496 was recovered in Algeria and classified in 2024, adding to the scientific dataset for L3 chondrites. These specimens preserve records of processes that occurred in the solar nebula before planets formed, when dust and droplets collided and accreted into larger bodies. The visible chondrules formed through rapid cooling of silicate melt droplets, likely during energetic events in the protoplanetary disk. For comprehensive background on meteorite classification and how scientists identify different types, see \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. NWA 17496 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an L3 ordinary chondrite. You can verify the classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. Each specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification, weight, and recovery details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Type 3 mean for chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Type 3 indicates minimal thermal metamorphism on the parent asteroid. Chondrules retain their original boundaries and internal structures rather than recrystallizing into uniform texture. Type 3 chondrites are considered primitive because they preserve features from the earliest solar system, before parent body heating altered mineral compositions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 17.40g polished end cut, professional riker display case with foam backing and clear viewing lid, and certificate of authenticity. No stand is included, the riker case is designed for shelf or table display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I display this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The riker case protects the polished surface from dust and handling while allowing clear viewing. Place the case on a flat surface away from direct sunlight to prevent foam degradation. The case can be opened to examine the specimen more closely, but avoid touching the polished face to prevent fingerprints on the surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the difference between L, H, and LL chondrites?\u003c\/strong\u003e The letters denote total iron content and the amount present as metal versus bound in silicates. H (high iron) chondrites contain 25-31% total iron, L (low iron) contain 19-22%, and LL (low iron, low metal) contain 19-22% total iron but less free metal. These groups likely formed on separate parent asteroids with different oxidation states during accretion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eType 3 ordinary chondrites appeal to collectors seeking specimens that show visible internal structure without magnification. The 17.40g size provides substantial display presence while remaining accessible for new collectors building reference collections. The riker case format eliminates the need for additional display materials and protects the specimen from handling damage. Collectors building systematic representations of meteorite types value L group specimens as examples of moderate iron content between the more metal-rich H chondrites and metal-poor LL types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2024 classification date makes this a recent addition to the Meteoritical Bulletin, representing freshly classified material rather than older stock. The polished end cut format serves both aesthetic and educational purposes, the internal structure teaches solar system formation processes while the presentation quality suits shelf display. For collectors focused on primitive solar system materials, explore our complete selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003eChondrites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: L3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755682099247,"sku":"NWA-17496-17.40G-ENDCUT","price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6968.heic?v=1765430991"},{"product_id":"nwa-17496-l3-ordinary-chondrite-slice-in-riker-display-w-coa-13-23g","title":"NWA 17496 Chondrite Meteorite Slice, L3, 13.23g, Preserved Chondrules in Riker Display","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePrimitive chondrules frozen in time\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 13.23g polished slice reveals the pristine internal structure of NWA 17496, a Type 3 ordinary chondrite recovered from Algeria in 2024. The polished surface exposes individual chondrules--spherical grains that formed as molten droplets in the solar nebula 4.6 billion years ago. Type 3 meteorites preserve these features in their original state, unaltered by the thermal metamorphism that obscures chondrules in more equilibrated specimens. The slice captures this primitive texture across its entire face, with metal flecks distributed throughout the silicate matrix.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe specimen arrives ready for display in a professional riker case with foam backing, protecting the polished surface while allowing clear viewing of the chondrule population. The transparent lid keeps dust away while maintaining visibility from all angles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eChondrule structure and matrix composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe polished face shows distinct chondrules ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters in diameter, each preserving its original spherical or ellipsoidal geometry. These structures formed through rapid cooling of molten silicate droplets in the protoplanetary disk, flash-frozen before they could crystallize into uniform minerals. The surrounding matrix contains fine-grained olivine and pyroxene in unequilibrated proportions--meaning individual mineral grains retain compositional variations rather than homogenizing through heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMetal grains appear as bright flecks throughout the section, characteristic of L chondrites which contain lower total iron than H chondrites but still host abundant kamacite and taenite. The polish brings out the contrast between metal, chondrules, and matrix, making the meteorite's internal architecture immediately visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eL ordinary chondrites represent the second most common type of meteorite fall, accounting for roughly 35% of all observed meteorite falls worldwide. The \"L\" designation refers to low total iron content relative to H chondrites, typically 7-11% metallic iron by mass. These meteorites derive from parent body or bodies in the main asteroid belt that never underwent the internal heating required to melt and differentiate into core-mantle structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eType 3 classification marks this specimen as petrologic grade 3, the most primitive category that still qualifies as a true chondrite. At this grade, chondrules remain sharply defined with glassy mesostasis, and the matrix has experienced minimal recrystallization. Types 4-6 show progressive thermal metamorphism that gradually erases original textures. NWA 17496's Type 3 status means its chondrules preserve formation conditions from the earliest epoch of solar system history. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin classification\u003c\/a\u003e confirms this specimen's authenticity and petrologic grade.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. NWA 17496 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an L3 ordinary chondrite from Algeria, found in 2024. Full classification data: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Type 3 mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Type 3 is the petrologic grade indicating minimal thermal alteration. Chondrules retain their original sharp boundaries and glassy interiors, and minerals remain unequilibrated--they haven't homogenized through heat. This makes Type 3 chondrites the most primitive specimens available to collectors, preserving solar nebula formation conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 13.23g slice, professional riker display case with foam backing and transparent lid, and certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are chondrules scientifically important?\u003c\/strong\u003e Chondrules are the oldest known solid materials in the solar system, formed during the first few million years of disk evolution. Their textures record cooling rates, nebular temperatures, and the physics of dust aggregation. Type 3 chondrites like this preserve chondrule populations in near-pristine condition, making them windows into conditions that no longer exist anywhere in the solar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I display this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The included riker case is designed for shelf or cabinet display. Keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent potential fading of the foam backing. The transparent lid protects the polished surface from dust and handling while maintaining full visibility. No additional preparation is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eReady-to-display primitive material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis slice requires no additional mounting or preparation. The riker case provides immediate display capability for home collections, classroom demonstrations, or office shelving. At 13.23g, the specimen offers substantive size while remaining accessible to collectors building type collections or focusing on primitive chondrites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eL3 chondrites occupy a specific niche in systematic collections: common enough to be obtainable, primitive enough to show textbook chondrule structure, and visually distinct from more metamorphosed grades. This specimen fits into \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chondrites\"\u003echondrite collections\u003c\/a\u003e focused on petrologic diversity or unequilibrated specimens. The 2024 recovery date marks it as recently classified material entering the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eClassification reference\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017496\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17496\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: L3 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44755693600815,"sku":"NWA-17496-13.23G-SLICE","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_69712.heic?v=1765431207"},{"product_id":"howardite-meteorite-nwa-17708-from-vesta-rare-achondrite-4-24g","title":"NWA 17708 Howardite Meteorite Part Slice, Achondrite, 4.24g, Fresh Fusion Crust","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFresh fusion crust on brecciated Vestan material\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.24g part slice of NWA 17708 retains approximately 50% fresh fusion crust along its edge, providing direct evidence of atmospheric entry heating. The sanded interior face exposes the brecciated texture characteristic of howardites, with contrasting lithologic clasts embedded throughout a fine-grained matrix. The specimen balances exterior preservation with internal structural visibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17708 was recovered in Mali in 2024 and classified as a howardite, part of the HED achondrite group. The part slice form shows both the exterior fusion crust and the complex interior brecciation pattern formed during impact events on Vesta's surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated structure and surface features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sanded face reveals clasts of varying composition distributed through a darker matrix, representing mixed eucritic and diogenitic material. The brecciation formed when high-energy impacts on Vesta's surface pulverized and recompacted different crustal rock types. This mixing process created the heterogeneous texture visible in the polished section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fusion crust along the edge displays the black, glassy coating formed during the meteorite's passage through Earth's atmosphere. The preserved crust provides a textbook example of atmospheric ablation features. The weak magnetic response typical of HED achondrites confirms the absence of significant metal content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowardites formed on asteroid 4 Vesta, the second-largest body in the asteroid belt and the only differentiated asteroid large enough to retain a basaltic crust. NASA's Dawn mission confirmed Vesta as the HED parent body through spectroscopic analysis matching orbital data with meteorite specimens. Howardites represent the mixed surface regolith of Vesta, created when impacts blended the deeper diogenitic material with the surface eucritic basalts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe HED group provides critical data about planetary differentiation processes in the early solar system. Vesta's differentiated structure, iron core, olivine mantle, and basaltic crust, mirrors the internal structure of terrestrial planets, making HED meteorites essential for understanding planetary formation. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to explore how classification systems organize these diverse specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, NWA 17708 is officially classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a howardite achondrite. You can verify the classification through the \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a howardite?\u003c\/strong\u003e A howardite is a brecciated achondrite composed of mixed eucritic and diogenitic fragments. These meteorites formed in Vesta's regolith layer when asteroid impacts pulverized and mixed different crustal rock types together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 4.24g part slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and protective gembox display case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy does this specimen have weak magnetism?\u003c\/strong\u003e HED achondrites like howardites contain minimal metallic iron, consisting primarily of silicate minerals. This produces the weak to negligible magnetic response typical of differentiated achondrites from Vesta.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDisplay-ready Vestan specimen at accessible size\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.24g slice provides entry to HED collecting at a manageable price point while maintaining scientific significance. The preserved fusion crust adds visual interest and authenticity markers that many collectors prioritize. The part slice format combines displayability with structural detail visibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowardites represent approximately 20% of all HED falls, making them less common than eucrites but more available than diogenites. The 2024 classification date places NWA 17708 among recently recognized Vestan material. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/howardites\"\u003eHowardites\u003c\/a\u003e collection or explore related \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hed-meteorites\"\u003eHED Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e specimens from Vesta.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17708\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Howardite | Find, Mali, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44764635824175,"sku":"NWA-17708-4.24G-SLICE","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/5AD694D6-A306-4821-ADE7-A1A31890DB47.jpg?v=1765770813"},{"product_id":"howardite-meteorite-nwa-17708-from-vesta-rare-achondrite-6-15g-part-slice","title":"NWA 17708 Howardite Meteorite Part Slice, Achondrite, 6.15g, Partial Fusion Crust","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSanded howardite slice with partial fusion crust coverage\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 6.15g part slice of NWA 17708 preserves approximately 50% fusion crust coverage along its edge surfaces, offering direct visual evidence of atmospheric entry heating. The single sanded face reveals brecciated internal structure characteristic of howardites, while the untouched exterior maintains its ablation texture. The fusion crust's preservation at this percentage is significant for a slice, as most cutting removes all atmospheric heating traces. This specimen provides both surface ablation features and interior breccia texture in a single piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNWA 17708 was recovered in Mali in 2024 and classified as a howardite, placing it within the HED (Howardite-Eucrite-Diogenite) achondrite group. The specimen's fresh condition indicates minimal terrestrial weathering since recovery. The sanded face allows examination of clast distribution and matrix composition, while the fusion crust sections document the meteorite's descent through Earth's atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciation and surface features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sanded face exposes a heterogeneous breccia containing clasts of varying composition embedded in a fine-grained matrix. These clasts represent different rock types mixed by impact processes on the parent body surface. The contrast between lighter eucritic material and darker diogenitic components creates visible textural variation across the slice. This mixing pattern distinguishes howardites from the more uniform eucrites and diogenites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe preserved fusion crust displays the glassy, blackened texture formed when atmospheric friction melted the meteorite's surface during entry. This ablation coating formed at temperatures exceeding 1600°C as the stone decelerated from cosmic velocities. The crust's thickness and distribution pattern reflect the orientation and tumbling behavior of the fragment during atmospheric passage. The boundary between fusion crust and interior material marks the depth of heating penetration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowardites formed on asteroid 4 Vesta through impact gardening processes that mixed eucritic basalts and diogenitic orthopyroxenites across the surface regolith. These impacts excavated material from different crustal depths and combined them into polymict breccias. NASA's Dawn spacecraft confirmed Vesta as the HED parent body through spectroscopic matching and crater analysis between 2011 and 2012. Vesta is the only definitively identified asteroid source for meteorite groups, making howardites among the few meteorites with spacecraft-confirmed origins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe brecciated texture records billions of years of impact bombardment on Vesta's surface. Each impact event fragmented and mixed existing rock types, creating the complex assemblages seen in howardites. This process parallels lunar regolith formation, offering insights into surface evolution on airless bodies. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how impact processes shape planetary surfaces throughout the solar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17708 is classified as a howardite in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. You can verify this classification at: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin NWA 17708 entry\u003c\/a\u003e. The specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. documenting its classification, weight, and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does howardite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Howardites are polymict breccias composed of mixed eucritic and diogenitic material from asteroid Vesta. The name refers to impact-generated mixtures that combine basaltic eucrite and orthopyroxenite diogenite fragments. These breccias formed in Vesta's regolith through billions of years of meteorite impacts that excavated and combined different crustal lithologies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 6.15g NWA 17708 part slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen information card, and protective gembox display case. The slice measures sufficient size to display both fusion crust and interior brecciation features clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is the fusion crust important?\u003c\/strong\u003e Fusion crust proves atmospheric entry and distinguishes meteorites from terrestrial rocks. On a slice, fusion crust preservation is uncommon because cutting typically removes all surface material. This specimen's 50% crust coverage allows study of both the ablation surface formed during entry and the internal structure revealed by cutting.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I see the different rock types in the breccia?\u003c\/strong\u003e The sanded face reveals clast and matrix variations representing different lithologies mixed by impact. While the individual mineralogy requires magnification or thin section analysis to fully characterize, the textural heterogeneity is visible to the naked eye as variations in grain size and tone across the slice surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAccessible Vesta material for HED collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 6.15g slice provides entry-level access to confirmed Vesta material at $45.00. The combination of preserved fusion crust and exposed interior structure offers more observational value than many slices at this price point. For collectors building HED suites, howardites represent the regolith component alongside the crustal eucrites and mantle diogenites. The specimen's size accommodates standard display cases while remaining affordable for educational collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNWA 17708's 2024 classification makes this among the most recently studied howardites available to collectors. The fresh find status and minimal weathering preserve original textures without desert oxidation effects common in older Saharan finds. Browse additional specimens from the same parent body in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/howardites\"\u003eHowardites\u003c\/a\u003e collection, or explore the complete range of Vesta meteorites in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hed-meteorites\"\u003eHED Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e section.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17708\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Howardite | Find, Mali, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44764664037423,"sku":"NWA-17708-6.15G-SLICE","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/5078F4FA-7C42-4287-99C1-99CD8FEB70CA.jpg?v=1765770681"},{"product_id":"howardite-meteorite-nwa-17708-from-vesta-rare-achondrite-12-00g-part-slice","title":"NWA 17708 Howardite Meteorite Part Slice, Achondrite, 12.00g, Fusion Crust Preserved","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFresh Vestan regolith breccia with preserved fusion crust\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 12.00g part slice of NWA 17708 preserves approximately 50% fusion crust coverage along its edge surfaces, exhibiting the glossy black exterior formed during atmospheric entry. The sanded interior face exposes contrasting lithologies characteristic of impact-mixed Vestan material. Light-toned eucritic clasts appear embedded within darker diogenitic fragments and fine-grained matrix, creating a mosaic that records the violent collisions that shaped asteroid 4 Vesta's surface billions of years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe specimen measures suitable for hand examination while maintaining significant mass for a newly classified howardite. The fusion crust's preservation on half the edge perimeter makes this slice particularly valuable for study, as it displays both the meteorite's exterior shell and interior brecciated structure in a single piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciation and clast structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sanded face reveals the complex brecciation that defines howardites as polymict regolith breccias. Eucritic clasts, composed of basaltic plagioclase and pyroxene, contrast visually with the orthopyroxene-rich diogenitic material. These lithologies do not represent a single impact event but rather the accumulated debris of countless collisions in Vesta's regolith over geological time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fine-grained matrix binding these clasts consists of pulverized eucritic and diogenitic material, shock-welded by impact pressures. This matrix-clast relationship distinguishes howardites from both pure eucrites and pure diogenites, making them critical for understanding impact gardening processes on differentiated asteroids.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNWA 17708 originates from asteroid 4 Vesta, the second-largest body in the main asteroid belt and the only differentiated asteroid confirmed to have survived largely intact since the solar system's formation. NASA's Dawn mission data directly links the HED meteorite group to Vesta through spectroscopic matching, making howardites like this specimen verified samples of a world we have photographed and studied from orbit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowardites formed in Vesta's regolith layer, where repeated impacts mixed material from the asteroid's basaltic crust (eucrites) with fragments from its exposed mantle (diogenites). This mixing occurred primarily in the Rheasilvia basin, a massive impact structure near Vesta's south pole that excavated deep enough to expose mantle material. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context on how impact processes create these mixed achondrites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e NWA 17708 is classified as a howardite in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. You can verify its classification at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does howardite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Howardites are polymict breccias containing both eucritic (basaltic) and diogenitic (orthopyroxene-rich) material mixed by impacts in Vesta's regolith. The name comes from English chemist Edward Howard, who studied the first scientifically recognized meteorite fall in 1802.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 12.00g part slice, certificate of authenticity, custom specimen card with classification details, and protective gembox display case.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the fusion crust on this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The black glassy coating on approximately 50% of the edge surfaces formed when the meteorite's exterior melted during atmospheric passage. This crust preserves flow features and provides visual contrast with the interior brecciated material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDisplay-ready Vestan sample with scientific documentation\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis slice offers collectors a balance of size, fusion crust preservation, and visible brecciation structure. The 12.00g mass provides substantial presence for display while remaining accessible for collectors building comprehensive achondrite collections. The sanded face allows direct observation of clast boundaries and matrix composition without magnification.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNWA 17708 was recovered in Mali in 2024 and represents recently classified Vestan material available to collectors. The partial fusion crust coverage adds visual interest and scientific value, as specimens showing both exterior and interior characteristics in a single slice are particularly desirable for educational collections. Browse additional verified asteroid samples in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/hed-meteorites\"\u003eHED Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017708\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17708\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Howardite | Find, Mali, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44764670066735,"sku":"NWA-17708-12.00G-SLICE","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/97E06DA9-4EE5-452E-9038-11DF19624715.jpg?v=1765770730"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-0-83g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 0.83g, Complete Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete feldspathic breccia slice from the lunar highlands\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 0.83g complete slice of Rabt Sbayta 007 preserves a cross-section of lunar feldspathic breccia, a rock type that dominates the Moon's ancient highland crust. The slice displays the characteristic texture of impact-generated breccias: angular fragments of plagioclase-rich material bound together by shock-processed matrix. This specimen provides a physical sample of the Moon's surface geology, representing crust that formed over 4 billion years ago during the lunar magma ocean's crystallization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias like this one originate from the Moon's heavily cratered highlands, regions that preserve the earliest chapter of lunar crustal evolution. The complete slice format allows observation of the full thickness of this fragment, showing how multiple generations of impact events have reworked the same material. Each clast within the matrix tells part of the story of bombardment that shaped the Moon's surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated texture and mineral composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice reveals a clast-laden matrix typical of feldspathic breccias, with lighter plagioclase fragments visible against darker mineral phases. These angular clasts represent pieces of the original lunar crust that were shattered and reassembled by meteoroid impacts on the Moon's surface. The feldspathic composition, dominated by calcium-rich and sodium-rich plagioclase feldspar, reflects the buoyant minerals that floated to the top of the lunar magma ocean as the Moon's crust solidified.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImpact processes have welded these fragments together without complete melting, preserving the identity of individual clasts while creating a cohesive rock. This texture records a violent formation history, with shock waves compressing and lithifying loose regolith into solid breccia. The slice format captures this complexity in a single cross-section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 represents material from the Moon's feldspathic highlands, which cover approximately 83% of the lunar surface. These ancient terrains formed during the first few hundred million years of the Moon's existence, when less dense plagioclase crystals separated from a global magma ocean and accumulated at the surface. Impacts by asteroids and comets over billions of years have pulverized and mixed this crust, creating the regolith and breccias that dominate the highlands today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth after large impacts on the Moon eject material at velocities exceeding the Moon's escape velocity of 2.4 km\/s. These fragments orbit in space for thousands to millions of years before intersecting Earth's orbit and falling as meteorites. Each lunar meteorite provides scientists with samples from locations not visited by Apollo or Luna missions, expanding our understanding of lunar geology beyond the equatorial regions explored by spacecraft. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how classification confirms lunar origin through mineralogy and chemistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Rabt Sbayta 007 is classified as Lunar (feldspathic breccia) in the Meteoritical Bulletin. You can verify this classification through the \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity confirming its classification and origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccias are rocks composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar fragments that have been broken apart and re-cemented by impact processes. The term feldspathic indicates high feldspar content (typically over 90%), while breccia describes the fragmented, angular texture. This composition characterizes the Moon's ancient highland crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 0.83g lunar meteorite slice, certificate of authenticity, custom specimen card with classification details, and a display box for protection and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do scientists confirm a meteorite came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are identified through multiple diagnostic criteria: oxygen isotope ratios that match Apollo samples, mineral assemblages dominated by plagioclase feldspar with minor pyroxene and olivine, extremely low water content, and specific trace element patterns. The feldspathic composition and brecciated texture of Rabt Sbayta 007 match known lunar highland lithologies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are complete slices significant for collectors?\u003c\/strong\u003e Complete slices preserve the entire thickness of a meteorite fragment, showing structural features across the full cross-section. For breccias, this format reveals the distribution of clasts and matrix throughout the specimen, providing more geological information than partial slices or fragments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDisplay and accessibility for collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 0.83g, this slice provides an accessible entry point into lunar meteorite collecting while maintaining scientific authenticity. The complete slice format offers more visual interest than fragments of equivalent mass, displaying the full cross-sectional texture of the breccia. The included display box protects the specimen while allowing clear viewing of its features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias represent the most common lunar lithology available to collectors, as they dominate the Moon's surface area. This accessibility makes specimens like Rabt Sbayta 007 practical for educational collections, allowing hands-on study of actual lunar material. The combination of authenticity, complete slice format, and modest size creates a functional addition to collections focused on \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e or broader meteorite type coverage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Western Sahara, 2017\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44765161521199,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-0.83G-SLICE","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/1BDED090-D03C-496A-A4A0-596C5015F908.jpg?v=1765778243"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-1-44g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 1.44g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice of lunar highland material\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 1.44g complete slice of Rabt Sbayta 007 preserves feldspathic breccia from the Moon's ancient highland crust. The specimen displays the characteristic light-toned feldspathic matrix that defines lunar highland material, formed over 4 billion years ago during the Moon's early differentiation. As a full slice rather than a fragment, this piece shows the complete cross-section of the meteorite's internal structure, providing clear visibility of the brecciated texture throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 was recovered in Western Sahara in 2017 and classified as a feldspathic breccia, placing it among the lunar meteorites that sample the Moon's ancient anorthositic crust. The slice format preserves both natural exterior and interior features, offering a comprehensive view of lunar highland geology in a compact, display-ready format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFeldspathic breccia structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice reveals the fragmental nature of lunar highland breccias, consisting of angular clasts of anorthosite and related feldspathic lithologies cemented together by impact processes. Feldspathic breccias form when meteoroid impacts on the Moon's surface shatter and mix highland crustal rocks, then lithify the debris through shock compression and localized melting. The light coloration results from the dominance of plagioclase feldspar, the primary mineral in the lunar highlands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMicroscopic examination of feldspathic breccias reveals multiple generations of impact processing, with clasts containing earlier brecciation events embedded within younger breccia matrices. This layered history records billions of years of bombardment on the airless lunar surface, where every impact contributes to the ongoing recycling of crustal material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites originate from the Moon's surface, ejected into space by large asteroid impacts with sufficient energy to overcome lunar gravity. These specimens drift through space until Earth's gravity captures them, delivering samples from regions of the Moon not visited by Apollo or Luna missions. Feldspathic breccias specifically sample the lunar highlands, the light-colored, heavily cratered terrain visible from Earth that contrasts with the darker volcanic maria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lunar highlands represent the Moon's primordial crust, formed when plagioclase feldspar floated to the top of the lunar magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. This anorthositic material dominates the Moon's far side and much of the near side highlands, making feldspathic meteorites critical for understanding the Moon's early differentiation and subsequent impact history. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how these specimens reach Earth and why they matter for planetary science.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Rabt Sbayta 007 is officially classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar feldspathic breccia. The classification confirms lunar origin through oxygen isotope analysis, mineral chemistry, and petrographic examination. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccia describes a rock composed primarily of feldspar-rich fragments (clasts) cemented together by impact processes. In lunar meteorites, this classification indicates material from the Moon's ancient highland crust, where plagioclase feldspar dominates the mineralogy. The brecciated texture results from repeated meteoroid impacts that shattered and mixed crustal rocks over billions of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 1.44g lunar meteorite slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and display box for protection and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar origin is confirmed through multiple analytical techniques: oxygen isotope ratios that match Apollo samples, mineral compositions consistent with lunar formation conditions, and the presence of diagnostic lunar minerals. The feldspathic composition, low iron content, and absence of water-bearing minerals all align with known lunar geology, providing definitive evidence of Moon origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan feldspathic breccias tell us which part of the Moon they came from?\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike mare basalts that have distinctive ages and compositions, feldspathic breccias sample the broadly similar highland crust and cannot be traced to specific impact craters or regions. However, their composition confirms they originate from the ancient anorthositic crust that dominates the lunar highlands, providing samples from regions potentially inaccessible to spacecraft missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites remain among the most sought-after specimens in meteorite collecting, offering private ownership of material from another world. This complete slice format provides maximum display impact for the weight, showing the full cross-section of lunar highland material in a form suitable for close examination. At 1.44g, the specimen represents an accessible entry point into lunar meteorite collecting while maintaining scientific integrity and visual presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias specifically appeal to collectors interested in the Moon's early crustal evolution and impact history. The light coloration and fragmental texture provide immediate visual distinction from terrestrial rocks, while the complete slice format ensures the specimen displays effectively without requiring specialized mounting. For collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e holdings, feldspathic breccias complement mare basalts and other lunar lithologies, representing the highland terrain that covers most of the Moon's surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Western Sahara, 2017\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44765166501935,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-1.44G-SLICE","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/2ABFDAB2-6EDE-408B-9D14-AED0754B3377.jpg?v=1765778419"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-1-58g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 1.58g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA complete slice of lunar highland crust\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 1.58g slice captures the full cross-section of a Rabt Sbayta 007 specimen, revealing the brecciated texture that defines feldspathic breccia meteorites. The slice displays a mosaic of angular clasts embedded in a fine-grained matrix, preserving the impact-processed regolith from the Moon's ancient highland regions. The complete slice format allows observation of how individual mineral fragments and lithic clasts distribute throughout the specimen, showing the mechanical mixing that occurred during repeated meteorite bombardment of the lunar surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 represents material ejected from the Moon's feldspathic highlands, the bright, heavily cratered terrain visible from Earth. The slice shows the characteristic light coloration of plagioclase-rich lunar crust, with clast boundaries and matrix structure visible across the entire face. This specimen was recovered from Western Sahara in 2017 and classified as a feldspathic breccia based on its mineral composition and oxygen isotope ratios that match Apollo sample data.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciation and lunar regolith structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice exhibits the fragmental texture produced by billions of years of meteorite impacts on the lunar surface. Angular mineral fragments, ranging from sub-millimeter to several millimeters across, sit within a finer-grained matrix that formed from pulverized lunar soil. This structure records the gardening process that churns the upper few meters of the Moon's surface, mixing and lithifying loose regolith into consolidated breccia through impact heat and pressure.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlagioclase feldspar dominates the mineralogy, giving the specimen its light appearance and connecting it to the anorthositic crust that forms the lunar highlands. The absence of fusion crust on this interior slice reveals the unweathered texture of the breccia, showing how impact-generated structures appear in lunar rocks before atmospheric entry modified their surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias originate from the Moon's highlands, which formed during the early differentiation of the lunar magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. As the Moon's molten surface cooled, plagioclase feldspar crystallized and floated to form a thick anorthositic crust. Subsequent bombardment shattered this crust into fragments that were repeatedly broken, mixed, and welded together by impact processes. Rabt Sbayta 007 preserves this impact history, providing a sample of ancient lunar crust that was excavated by a meteorite strike powerful enough to launch material beyond the Moon's gravitational pull.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites account for a tiny fraction of all classified meteorites, with feldspathic breccias representing the most common lunar meteorite type due to the extensive area covered by highland terrain. These specimens complement the Apollo and Luna sample collections by providing material from regions of the Moon not visited by spacecraft missions. For collectors and researchers, feldspathic breccias offer direct access to the composition and structure of the lunar crust. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context on meteorite classification and planetary geology.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Rabt Sbayta 007 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar feldspathic breccia. You can verify the classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity confirming its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is feldspathic breccia?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccia is a rock type composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar fragments that have been mechanically broken and re-cemented by impact processes. On the Moon, these breccias form in the highland regions where the ancient anorthositic crust has been pulverized by billions of years of meteorite bombardment. The term feldspathic refers to the high plagioclase content, while breccia describes the fragmental texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 1.58g lunar meteorite slice, a certificate of authenticity, a custom specimen card with classification details, and a display box for storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this Moon rock reach Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e A meteorite impact on the lunar surface ejected this material with sufficient velocity to escape the Moon's gravity. The fragment traveled through space, eventually intersecting Earth's orbit and falling as a meteorite. The Western Sahara recovery location suggests it survived atmospheric entry and was discovered during systematic meteorite searching in the desert.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are complete slices significant for collectors?\u003c\/strong\u003e Complete slices preserve the full cross-sectional view of a meteorite specimen, showing internal structure and texture across the entire piece rather than just a partial window. For lunar breccias, complete slices reveal how clasts distribute throughout the matrix and demonstrate the heterogeneous nature of impact-processed regolith.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDisplay-ready lunar specimen\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 1.58g, this slice provides a complete view of lunar highland breccia structure in a size suitable for close examination and display. The full cross-section format shows the distribution of clasts and matrix throughout the specimen, offering more interpretive value than partial slices or fragments. The light coloration and brecciated texture make the lunar origin visually apparent, while the complete slice geometry presents well in the included display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites remain relatively scarce in collections compared to asteroidal material, with feldspathic breccias representing the most accessible entry point into lunar specimen collecting. This slice combines scientific significance with visual clarity, showing the impact-processed structure of ancient lunar crust in a complete cross-sectional format. Collectors building \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collections will find this specimen documents the highland breccia type that dominates the Moon's oldest visible surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Western Sahara, 2017\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44765169647663,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-1.58G-SLICE","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/D9B3CC6D-6B31-45B4-916A-FC4991B89221.jpg?v=1765778489"},{"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"},{"product_id":"ksar-ghilane-022-1-75g-ungrouped-achondrite-extremely-rare-meteorite-slice","title":"Ksar Ghilane 022 Ungrouped Achondrite Meteorite Slice, Achondrite-ung, 1.75g, Augite-Rich Matrix","description":"\u003ch2\u003eDifferentiated material from an unknown parent body\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 1.75g slice exposes a cross-section of augite-dominant matrix representing differentiated planetary crust that does not match any established achondrite group. The specimen preserves an equant crystal texture where individual augite grains average 1.5 mm across, creating a granular fabric visible throughout the slice. Minor enstatite appears interspersed among the pyroxene grains, alongside accessory phases including chromium-bearing troilite, daubreelite, alabandite, and manganese-iron oxide. Secondary calcite veining crosses portions of the matrix, recording post-formation aqueous alteration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice format allows observation of the textural relationships between mineral phases and provides a representative sample of the meteorite's internal structure. Found in Tunisia in 2023, this specimen joined the small inventory of ungrouped achondrites that challenge existing classification frameworks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePyroxene-dominated texture and mineralogy\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAugite forms the primary mineral phase throughout this specimen, characterized by a ferrosilite content near zero (Fs ~0.0-0.1) and wollastonite component ranging from Wo ~39.4 to 42.3. These compositional values place the pyroxene in the calcic field, consistent with crystallization from a basaltic melt under conditions similar to those that produce terrestrial gabbros. The equant grain morphology indicates slow cooling rates that allowed crystals to develop isometric shapes rather than elongated or skeletal forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnstatite occurs as a minor phase with ferrosilite content near Fs ~0.1 and wollastonite ranging from Wo ~0.9 to 3.6, representing orthopyroxene that crystallized alongside the augite. Sulfide minerals include chromium-enriched troilite and daubreelite, both of which typically form during late-stage crystallization in reduced environments. Alabandite (manganese sulfide) and the manganese-iron oxide phase represent additional accessory minerals that record the availability of manganese during parent body differentiation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUngrouped achondrites represent meteorites that experienced complete melting and differentiation on their parent asteroids but do not share the diagnostic characteristics of established groups like HEDs, angrites, or aubrites. Each ungrouped specimen potentially samples a distinct parent body with its own thermal and compositional history. Ksar Ghilane 022's augite-rich composition and specific pyroxene chemistry distinguish it from all currently recognized achondrite families, suggesting formation on a previously unsampled differentiated asteroid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOxygen isotope analyses of acid-washed subsamples place this meteorite on a distinct trajectory in three-isotope space, further confirming its independent origin. The crystallization sequence preserved in this specimen, augite as the primary phase with minor orthopyroxene, indicates a basaltic composition similar to eucrites but with mineralogical and chemical signatures that prevent classification within the HED suite. Understanding the diversity of differentiated asteroids requires specimens like Ksar Ghilane 022 that expand our knowledge beyond well-studied groups. Learn more about meteorite classification and origins at \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ksar Ghilane 022 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as Achondrite-ung. You can verify the classification at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Ksar%20Ghilane%20022\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin: Ksar Ghilane 022\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its provenance and classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"ungrouped achondrite\" mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e An ungrouped achondrite is differentiated igneous rock from an asteroid that does not match the mineralogy, chemistry, or oxygen isotope signature of any established achondrite group. Each ungrouped specimen potentially represents material from a distinct parent body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 1.75g meteorite slice and certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are augite crystals significant in this meteorite?\u003c\/strong\u003e The dominance of augite with near-zero ferrosilite content indicates crystallization from a calcium-rich basaltic melt under reducing conditions. This mineral assemblage differs from the augite chemistry in HED meteorites and other achondrite groups, supporting the specimen's ungrouped status.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat caused the calcite veining?\u003c\/strong\u003e Secondary calcite veins form when aqueous fluids carrying dissolved calcium carbonate infiltrate fractures in the meteorite, typically during terrestrial weathering after the fall or find. These veins postdate the original igneous crystallization of the rock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUngrouped achondrites occupy a specialized niche in collections because each specimen potentially represents a unique differentiated parent body. With only a small number of ungrouped achondrites recognized in the Meteoritical Bulletin, these specimens document asteroidal diversity beyond the major achondrite groups. This 1.75g slice provides accessible entry into this scientifically significant category at a weight suitable for study collections and educational displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice format exposes the augite-dominated texture and allows direct observation of the mineralogical features described in the classification documentation. For collectors building representative suites of differentiated meteorites, Ksar Ghilane 022 fills the ungrouped achondrite position with material that cannot be approximated by specimens from established groups. Browse additional differentiated meteorite types in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ungrouped-achondrites\"\u003eUngrouped Achondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Ksar%20Ghilane%20022\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eKsar Ghilane 022\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Achondrite-ung | Find, Tunisia, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44863852904495,"sku":"KSAR-GHILANE-022-1.75G-SLICE","price":90.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/ksar-ghilane-022-achondrite-meteorite-slice-capsule-1-75g.heic?v=1779460587"},{"product_id":"erg-chech-002-0-8g-ungrouped-achondrite-red-individual","title":"Erg Chech 002 Ungrouped Achondrite Meteorite Individual, Achondrite-ung, 0.80g, Andesitic Crust Fragment","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA fragment of the oldest volcanic crust\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 0.80g individual preserves the andesitic composition that distinguishes Erg Chech 002 from all other achondrites in world collections. The specimen displays noticeable reddish-brown terrestrial staining across portions of the surface and interior matrix, consistent with the Saharan Desert environment where this meteorite was recovered in 2020. The Meteoritical Bulletin reports minor goethite as a secondary weathering product in EC 002 specimens, a direct result of groundwater interaction in the find location.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe surface shows the characteristic gray-green matrix typical of this meteorite's pyroxene-plagioclase assemblage, with staining concentrated in fractures and exposed interior surfaces. This individual retains its natural exterior geometry from the breakup of the parent mass during atmospheric entry or ground impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAndesitic mineralogy and texture\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eErg Chech 002 consists predominantly of plagioclase feldspar and pyroxene crystals in proportions that match terrestrial andesite, a volcanic rock type commonly found in subduction zones on Earth. This mineralogy requires formation through partial melting and fractional crystallization in a silica-rich magma system, processes that occurred on a differentiated protoplanet with a defined crust-mantle boundary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe fine-grained texture indicates rapid cooling at or near the surface of its parent body, consistent with extrusive volcanism. This specimen preserves that crystallization history in a hand-sized fragment representing crustal geology from the first few million years of solar system formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eErg Chech 002 crystallized approximately 4.565 billion years ago, making it older than any other volcanic rock yet analyzed. This age predates the formation of Earth's crust by tens of millions of years. The meteorite formed on a protoplanet that achieved full differentiation into core, mantle, and crust before catastrophic disruption during the early bombardment phase of solar system evolution. No parent body has been identified; the protoplanet that produced this crust no longer exists as an intact object.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe andesitic composition indicates a complex magmatic evolution rare among differentiated asteroids, most of which produced basaltic or ultramafic crustal rocks. Erg Chech 002 demonstrates that protoplanetary volcanism in the early solar system was more geologically diverse than the surviving asteroid belt suggests. Collectors seeking specimens that document primordial planetary processes will find few examples with greater scientific significance. For comprehensive context on meteorite classification systems and formation mechanisms, see \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Erg Chech 002 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an ungrouped achondrite. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Erg%20Chech%20002\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eErg Chech 002\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does the reddish-brown staining indicate?\u003c\/strong\u003e The staining results from terrestrial weathering in the Algerian Sahara, where groundwater introduced iron-bearing minerals into fractures and porous regions of the meteorite. The Meteoritical Bulletin identifies goethite as a weathering product in EC 002 specimens. This staining does not affect the specimen's scientific integrity or primary mineralogy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 0.80g individual meteorite and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"ungrouped achondrite\" mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ungrouped achondrites do not fit into established meteorite groups based on mineralogy, oxygen isotopes, or chemistry. Erg Chech 002's andesitic composition and ancient age distinguish it from HED meteorites, lunar samples, Martian meteorites, and all other classified achondrite groups, placing it in its own category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is the age of this meteorite significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e At 4.565 billion years, Erg Chech 002 crystallized within the first few million years of the solar system's existence, before most planetary bodies had completed differentiation. It represents a snapshot of crustal geology from a time period for which no other volcanic samples are available, making it the oldest known piece of planetary crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eErg Chech 002 stands alone among meteorites for its combination of extreme age, andesitic composition, and protoplanetary origin. No other specimen type in private hands represents volcanic crust from the first epoch of planetary formation. The 2020 recognition of this meteorite expanded the known diversity of early solar system geology and provided the first andesitic sample from beyond Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 0.80g individual offers an accessible entry point into one of the most scientifically important meteorite finds of the 21st century. The visible weathering staining provides a documentary record of the specimen's terrestrial residence time while preserving the primary igneous texture beneath. For collectors building representative suites of achondrite types, Erg Chech 002 fills a category no other meteorite can occupy. Additional ungrouped achondrite specimens and related differentiated meteorite types are available in the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ungrouped-achondrites\"\u003eUngrouped Achondrites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Erg%20Chech%20002\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eErg Chech 002\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Achondrite-ung | Find, Algeria, 2020\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44864528384047,"sku":"ERG-CHECH-002-0.8G-INDIVIDUAL","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/erg-chech-002-ungrouped-achondrite-0-8g-front-view.heic?v=1769834996"},{"product_id":"gift-card","title":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. Gift Card, Digital Delivery, Never Expires, Redeemable Sitewide","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGive the gift of choice\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis digital gift card solves the challenge of selecting a meteorite specimen for someone else. Collectors have specific preferences for classification, size, visual features, and budget. A gift card lets the recipient choose exactly what fits their collection goals without guesswork.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe card arrives via email immediately after purchase with a unique code and redemption instructions. The recipient applies the code at checkout to deduct the value from any order total. No physical card ships, no waiting period, and no risk of delivery delays.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow it works\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter purchase, the buyer receives an email containing the gift card code and value. Forward that email to the recipient, or print the code to include with a card or note. The recipient visits tcmeteorites.com, selects their specimen, and enters the code during checkout. The card value applies to the order total, and any remaining balance stays on the card for future purchases.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCards never expire. They work on any product in the store: classified meteorites, tektites, impactites, display stands, and tools. Multiple cards can be combined on a single order if the total exceeds one card's value. Partial redemptions leave the remaining balance active on the same code.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy collectors prefer gift cards\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteorite collectors often have specific acquisition strategies. Some focus on a single classification group like HED achondrites or IAB irons. Others prioritize geographic origins, fall versus find status, or visual features like Widmanstatten patterns or fusion crust. A gift card respects those preferences without requiring the giver to navigate technical classifications or specimen availability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGift cards also accommodate budget flexibility. If the recipient wants a specimen priced higher than the card value, they pay the difference at checkout. If they select something less expensive, the remaining balance stays available. This eliminates the pressure to spend exactly the card amount or settle for a specimen outside their collecting focus. Browse the full range of options in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/premium-specimens\"\u003ePremium Specimens\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/budget-friendly-pieces\"\u003eBudget Friendly Pieces\u003c\/a\u003e collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the gift card expire?\u003c\/strong\u003e No. Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. gift cards have no expiration date and retain their full value indefinitely.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan the gift card be used on any product?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Gift cards apply to all products in the store, including meteorites, tektites, impactites, display stands, and tools. No restrictions apply.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat happens if the order total is less than the gift card value?\u003c\/strong\u003e The remaining balance stays active on the same gift card code and can be used on future orders until the full value is redeemed.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is the gift card delivered?\u003c\/strong\u003e Gift cards are delivered digitally via email immediately after purchase. The email includes the unique redemption code and instructions. No physical card ships.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I buy a gift card for myself?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Some collectors use gift cards to budget for larger purchases over time or to set aside funds specifically for meteorite acquisitions. The redemption process works the same regardless of who uses the code.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollecting with confidence\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery meteorite specimen in the Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. catalog includes a certificate of authenticity documenting classification, weight, and provenance. Gift card recipients choose from the same authenticated inventory available to all customers, with the same quality standards and verification process. For those new to meteorite collecting, our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e page provides context on classifications, parent bodies, and specimen types to help inform their selection.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"$10.00","offer_id":44868230021167,"sku":null,"price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"$25.00","offer_id":44868230053935,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"$50.00","offer_id":44868230086703,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"$100.00","offer_id":44868230119471,"sku":null,"price":100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"$250.00","offer_id":44868230152239,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"$500.00","offer_id":44868230185007,"sku":null,"price":500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/giftcard2.png?v=1768402862"},{"product_id":"sericho-pallasite-meteorite-slice-pmg-9-33g-olivine-in-iron-nickel-matrix","title":"Sericho Pallasite Meteorite Slice, PMG, 9.33g, Olivine in Iron-Nickel Matrix","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA polished cross-section through an asteroid's core-mantle boundary\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 9.33g slice of the Sericho pallasite puts one of the most structurally interesting meteorite types directly in hand. The polished face exposes a dense mosaic of olivine crystals suspended in a continuous iron-nickel matrix, the characteristic texture that makes pallasites immediately recognizable and unlike anything else in the natural world. Sericho is notable for its unusually high olivine crystal density, with estimates placing it at 70 to 80% olivine by volume, well above the 50% typical of most pallasites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe olivine in this specimen has terrestrialized over its time on Earth, shifting from its original green toward amber, brown, and deep black tones. This is a natural and expected consequence of long surface exposure in Kenya's environment, and the resulting color range gives the slice a rich, layered visual character. Metal-rich zones between the crystal clusters show the brushed metallic luster of the iron-nickel alloy, and under magnification the beginning of Widmanstatten structure is visible in areas of coarser metal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSericho's olivine crystals are well-rounded to sub-angular, a morphology interpreted as evidence that the crystals were suspended in liquid metal before the pallasite solidified, a snapshot of the boundary zone between an asteroid's metallic core and its rocky mantle at the moment of cooling. The crystal-metal contacts are clean and sharp on the polished face, with individual crystals ranging from a few millimeters to over a centimeter across.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis slice carries a thin protective epoxy coating applied to both faces to stabilize the olivine crystals and slow further terrestrialization. The terrestrialization of the olivine, the progressive oxidation and color shift from green toward brown and black, is visible across the face of this slice. Some crystals retain traces of amber and green in their interiors, visible under direct light at certain angles. The metallic matrix between crystals shows polishing scratches consistent with hand preparation and displays a subdued metallic sheen typical of weathered main group pallasite metal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePallasites are among the rarest meteorite types, fewer than 200 are classified, representing less than 0.2% of all known meteorites. Main group pallasites (PMG) are the largest and best-studied subset, linked geochemically to the IIIAB iron meteorite group and interpreted as samples from the core-mantle boundary of a single differentiated asteroid parent body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSericho was formally recognized in 2016 when large masses were acquired from villagers in Isiolo County, Kenya, though local oral history places knowledge of the stones considerably earlier, camel herders reportedly played on the larger masses as children. The strewn field extends over 45 kilometers, with individual pieces ranging from sub-kilogram fragments to masses as large as 500 kilograms. Learn more about this meteorite type: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-pallasite\"\u003eWhat Is a Pallasite?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Sericho is an officially classified meteorite with a Meteoritical Bulletin entry. See the \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=65717\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eofficial Meteoritical Bulletin entry for Sericho\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity. Offered by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is the olivine dark rather than green?\u003c\/strong\u003e The olivine in Sericho has undergone terrestrialization, a natural oxidation process that occurs as olivine crystals react with Earth's atmosphere and moisture over time. Fresh pallasites have transparent green to amber olivine. Sericho's surface exposure has shifted the color toward brown and black in most crystals, with some retaining amber tones in their interiors. This is characteristic of the Sericho find and does not affect the meteorite's authenticity or scientific significance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a main group pallasite?\u003c\/strong\u003e Main group pallasites (PMG) are the largest and most studied pallasite subset, linked geochemically to the IIIAB iron meteorite group. They are interpreted as samples from the core-mantle boundary of a single differentiated asteroid. Sericho belongs to this group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 9.33g polished slice shown, on an acrylic display stand, with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity. Note: this slice carries a thin protective epoxy coating on both faces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePallasites are one of the few meteorite types that require no scientific background to appreciate immediately, the olivine-in-metal texture is visually self-evident and unlike anything terrestrial. Sericho is the most accessible entry point into pallasite collecting, offering genuine main group pallasite material at a price point that rarer pallasites like Fukang or Imilac cannot approach. For collectors building a type collection, a Sericho slice fills the stony-iron category with a properly classified, documented specimen. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/stony-iron-meteorites\"\u003eStony-Iron Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=65717\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSericho\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Pallasite (PMG) | Find, Isiolo County, Kenya, 2016 | Total known weight: ~2,800kg\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45263722676271,"sku":"SERICHO-9.33G-SLICE-EP","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/sericho-pallasite-meteorite-slice-9-33g-hero.jpg?v=1777516252"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/collections\/budget-friendly-pieces-collection.png?v=1766196956","url":"https:\/\/www.tcmeteorites.com\/collections\/budget-friendly-pieces.oembed","provider":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}