Eucrites

Eucrites are basaltic achondrites from the surface of asteroid 4 Vesta, the second largest body in the asteroid belt. They are pieces of an ancient extraterrestrial lava flow, crystallized roughly 4.5 billion years ago when Vesta still had an active magma ocean. Unless specifically stated in the listing, specimens in this collection are Meteoritical Bulletin classified.

How we verify eucrites are real

Every specimen is tied to a Meteoritical Bulletin entry, the official global registry of classified meteorites maintained by the Meteoritical Society. Vesta origin is confirmed through oxygen isotope ratios, pyroxene chemistry, and reflectance spectra that match measurements made directly at Vesta by NASA's Dawn mission. The Bulletin record is the definitive proof of authenticity. Read more: The Meteoritical Bulletin Explained.

Eucrite subtypes

Basaltic eucrites formed as Vesta's surface lava flows. They contain pigeonite and plagioclase in a fine-grained basaltic texture, sometimes preserving original volcanic features.

Cumulate eucrites crystallized more slowly at depth in Vestan magma chambers. They have coarser grain sizes and reflect slower cooling, with pyroxenes that record protracted crystallization histories.

Polymict eucrites are breccias composed of multiple eucrite clasts produced by impact mixing on Vesta's surface. Some polymict eucrites grade into the howardite category if they contain enough diogenite material.

Frequently asked questions

How can I tell a eucrite is real? Authentic eucrites have a Meteoritical Bulletin entry, ship with documentation, and show characteristic basaltic texture or brecciated structure. Classification confirms Vesta origin through isotopic analysis. Read more: How Can You Tell if a Meteorite Is Real?

Are eucrites magnetic? Eucrites contain very little metallic iron and are typically not magnetic in any noticeable way. A strongly magnetic specimen marketed as a eucrite warrants closer inspection. Read more: Are Meteorites Magnetic?

What is the difference between a eucrite, a howardite, and a diogenite? All three come from Vesta. Eucrites are basaltic crust, diogenites are deeper orthopyroxene-rich rocks, and howardites are impact breccias containing mixtures of both. Together they form the HED clan. Read more: HED Meteorites.

How much do eucrites cost? Eucrites are relatively affordable compared to lunar or Martian achondrites, but premium polished slices and named falls command higher prices. Read more: How Much Do Meteorites Cost?

Are these specimens authenticated? Unless otherwise noted, every eucrite here has a Meteoritical Bulletin record and ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity.

See also: HED Meteorites · Diogenites · Howardites · Stony Meteorites · Types of Meteorites · Are Meteorites Illegal to Own?