{"title":"Lunar Meteorites","description":"\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites are rocks from the Moon that were ejected by large impacts, launched into space, and eventually recovered on Earth. They are among the rarest materials available to collectors, with a combined total known weight of only a few hundred kilograms worldwide. Unless specifically stated in the listing, specimens in this collection are Meteoritical Bulletin classified and represent genuine lunar material verified through laboratory analysis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eThe only legal way to own the Moon\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNASA Apollo mission samples and material returned by other government space programs are the property of their respective governments and cannot be privately owned. Lunar meteorites are entirely different. They were found on Earth, recovered legally, and classified through the standard meteorite classification process. They are the only way for private collectors to own authenticated lunar material, and every specimen carries independent scientific verification of its lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar origin is established through multiple independent lines of evidence: mineralogy consistent with lunar samples, oxygen isotope ratios matching the lunar value, and trace element and isotopic signatures that distinguish lunar material from all terrestrial rocks and other meteorite types. The combination of these analyses provides unambiguous identification. Read more about how meteorites get classified at \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/meteoritical-bulletin-explained\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin Explained\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eTypes of lunar meteorites\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLunar highland meteorites\u003c\/strong\u003e (feldspathic breccias, anorthosites, regolith breccias) originate from the pale, heavily cratered terrain covering most of the lunar surface. They represent the Moon's original anorthositic crust, some of the oldest planetary material recoverable on Earth, formed when the lunar magma ocean solidified approximately 4.4 billion years ago. These are typically light gray to off-white with a complex brecciated texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLunar mare basalts\u003c\/strong\u003e originate from the dark volcanic plains visible on the lunar nearside, ancient lava flows that flooded large impact basins between 3 and 4 billion years ago. They are darker, finer-grained, and richer in iron and magnesium than highland material.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMingled (mixed highland-mare) breccias\u003c\/strong\u003e combine clasts of both anorthositic highland material and basaltic mare material in a single rock, mechanically mixed by large impact events. These meteorites are scientifically valuable because they sample multiple lunar terrains at once, and they often include rarer rock types such as lunar gabbros, KREEP-rich material, and impact-melt breccias. Texturally they show a range of clast colors and matrix tones within a single specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do I know a lunar meteorite is genuine?\u003c\/strong\u003e Every lunar meteorite in this collection has a Meteoritical Bulletin entry confirming its classification. The listing includes a direct link to the official record. Each specimen ships with a Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. certificate of authenticity. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003eWhat Is a Lunar Meteorite?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs it legal to own a lunar meteorite?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Lunar meteorites found outside Antarctica are legally owned and traded. They are not Apollo samples. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/can-you-legally-buy-a-moon-rock\"\u003eCan You Legally Buy a Moon Rock?\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/are-meteorites-illegal-to-own\"\u003eAre Meteorites Illegal to Own?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow rare are lunar meteorites?\u003c\/strong\u003e The total combined weight of all known lunar meteorites is only a few hundred kilograms, which makes them among the rarest materials in any collector market. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-rare-are-meteorites\"\u003eHow Rare Are Meteorites?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow much do lunar meteorites cost?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are among the most expensive meteorite types by weight, driven by their extreme rarity, scientific significance, and limited supply. Pricing varies by classification, condition, and whether the specimen is a complete individual or a slice. Read more: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-much-do-meteorites-cost\"\u003eHow Much Do Meteorites Cost?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow can I tell my lunar meteorite is real?\u003c\/strong\u003e Genuine lunar meteorites have a Meteoritical Bulletin entry, ship with documentation, and come from established dealers. Visual identification alone is not sufficient because lunar rocks share textures with terrestrial breccias and basalts. 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 \n\u003cp\u003eSee also: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/martian-meteorites\"\u003eMartian Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003eWhat Is a Lunar Meteorite?\u003c\/a\u003e · \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/can-you-legally-buy-a-moon-rock\"\u003eCan You Legally Buy a Moon Rock?\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":"bechar-003-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-3-30g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Bechar 003 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 3.30g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice of lunar highland material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 3.30g specimen represents a complete slice through Bechar 003, a feldspathic breccia classified as lunar material from the Moon's highland crust. The slice preserves the full cross-section of this fragment, displaying the characteristic light-colored matrix that defines feldspathic breccias. Found in Algeria in 2022, Bechar 003 consists of angular clasts of anorthositic material cemented together by impact processes on the lunar surface. The complete nature of this slice provides an unobstructed view of the brecciated texture across the entire specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias form in the Moon's ancient highland regions, where repeated meteorite impacts over billions of years have shattered and reassembled crustal rocks. This slice captures that violent history in a single cross-section, with lighter plagioclase-rich fragments embedded in a fine-grained matrix. The specimen's completeness makes it particularly suitable for study and display, showing the full extent of the meteorite's internal structure without truncation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated texture and composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice exhibits the polymict brecciation typical of lunar highland meteorites. Angular clasts of varying sizes appear throughout the matrix, representing fragments of the Moon's anorthositic crust that were pulverized and lithified by impact events. The light coloration reflects the high plagioclase feldspar content characteristic of the lunar highlands, contrasting with the darker basaltic mare regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnder magnification, the boundary between clasts and matrix becomes evident, revealing the complex history of fragmentation and consolidation that created this rock. The feldspathic composition places this material firmly within the suite of highlands breccias that dominate the Moon's ancient crustal regions, formed during the period of heavy bombardment that shaped the early solar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBechar 003 belongs to the feldspathic breccia group of lunar meteorites, which originate from the Moon's highland crust. These ancient rocks, dominated by plagioclase feldspar, represent the Moon's primordial flotation crust that solidified from the lunar magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. Impact events on the Moon excavated this material, ejecting fragments into space where gravitational interactions eventually delivered them to Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide the only samples of the Moon accessible outside of the Apollo and Luna return missions. Feldspathic breccias specifically offer insight into the composition and evolution of the highlands, which cover approximately 83% of the lunar surface but were undersampled by crewed missions that focused on mare regions. Each lunar meteorite expands our understanding of lunar geology beyond the limited geographic range of sample return sites. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how these specimens reach Earth and how they are classified.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Bechar 003 is classified as Lunar (feldspathic breccia) in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin search\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccia describes a rock composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar fragments that have been broken apart and recemented by impact processes. The term indicates both the composition (feldspathic, meaning feldspar-rich) and structure (breccia, meaning composed of angular rock fragments). This classification places the meteorite in the lunar highlands suite.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The specimen includes the 3.30g complete slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and display box for secure storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are identified through oxygen isotope analysis, mineral chemistry, and comparison with Apollo samples. The specific ratios of oxygen isotopes in lunar material differ from all other solar system bodies, providing definitive proof of lunar origin. Additionally, the mineralogy and texture match known lunar rock types.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are complete slices significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e Complete slices preserve the entire cross-section of a meteorite fragment, showing the full extent of internal structures without truncation. This makes them particularly valuable for display and study, as they reveal the specimen's complete character rather than a partial view of a larger mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent some of the most sought-after specimens in meteorite collecting, with feldspathic breccias offering material from the Moon's ancient highland crust. This complete slice format provides maximum visual impact while remaining accessible compared to partial fragments or end cuts. The light coloration and visible brecciation make the specimen immediately recognizable as lunar material, with clear differentiation from terrestrial rocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 3.30g, this specimen balances substantiality with affordability in the lunar market. The complete slice format eliminates questions about what portion of the original fragment is represented, providing a self-contained specimen that requires no context beyond its own boundaries. The included display box protects the specimen while allowing immediate presentation, and the classification as a 2022 find places it among recently recovered lunar material with fresh documentation. Browse our complete selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to compare highland and mare specimens from different lunar regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44744636071983,"sku":"BECHAR-003-3.30G-SLICE","price":150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6766.heic?v=1765082583"},{"product_id":"bechar-003-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-3-30g-w-coa-display-box-copy","title":"Bechar 003 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 4.80g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice of feldspathic lunar highland material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 4.80g slice preserves the full cross-section of a lunar feldspathic breccia, showing the impact-generated texture characteristic of the Moon's ancient highland crust. The specimen displays a matrix of angular clasts cemented by fine-grained shock melt, a direct record of the violent bombardment history that shaped the lunar surface over billions of years. The slice format provides clear visibility of the brecciated structure throughout, offering both scientific interest and display value.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBechar 003 was recovered in Algeria in 2022 and classified as a feldspathic breccia, one of the most common lithologies delivered to Earth from the Moon. The complete slice format is less common than fragments or partial sections, making this specimen particularly suitable for study and collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice exhibits a heterogeneous texture dominated by angular to subangular clasts of varying sizes, embedded in a fine-grained matrix. Feldspathic breccias form when meteoroid impacts on the Moon's surface excavate and mix highland crustal materials, creating a mechanical mixture of rock fragments bound by shock-melted material. The light coloration reflects the high plagioclase feldspar content typical of lunar highland rocks, distinguishing these specimens from the darker basaltic lunar meteorites derived from mare regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnder magnification, individual clast boundaries become apparent, along with the contrasting textures between impact-generated matrix and older crystalline fragments. The slice shows no terrestrial weathering features that would obscure these lunar textures, maintaining clear evidence of its extraterrestrial origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias originate from the Moon's highland regions, which represent the oldest visible surfaces in the inner solar system. These ancient terrains formed as the lunar crust solidified approximately 4.4 billion years ago, when less dense plagioclase feldspar floated to the surface of the Moon's magma ocean. Subsequent bombardment by asteroids and comets pulverized and mixed these crustal rocks, creating the brecciated textures seen in specimens like Bechar 003.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth after impact events on the Moon eject material at velocities exceeding the lunar escape velocity of 2.4 kilometers per second. These ejected fragments orbit the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth capture them, delivering authentic lunar samples without the need for spacecraft missions. Studies of feldspathic breccias provide constraints on the composition and evolution of the lunar crust, complementing the limited sampling achieved by Apollo and Luna missions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how scientists classify and study these extraterrestrial materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Bechar 003 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=Bechar%20003\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 feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccias are impact-generated rocks dominated by plagioclase feldspar, the mineral that forms the Moon's bright highland crust. The term breccia indicates the rock is composed of angular fragments cemented together, a texture created by meteoroid impacts that shatter and remix crustal materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The specimen weighs 4.80g and includes a certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are identified through oxygen isotope analysis, mineral chemistry, and noble gas compositions that match Apollo samples. Feldspathic breccias show distinctive plagioclase-rich mineralogy, low iron content, and absence of terrestrial weathering products, confirming their lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I display this without damaging it?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are stable under normal indoor conditions. The display box provides protection from handling damage while allowing the specimen to be viewed. Keep the specimen away from high humidity environments to prevent potential alteration of any trace sulfide minerals present.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent the most accessible samples of another planetary body, offering private collectors the opportunity to own verified material from the Moon. Feldspathic breccias document the ancient highland crust and the intense bombardment history recorded in those surfaces. Complete slices like this specimen provide maximum visibility of internal textures while maintaining the aesthetic appeal valued in display collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 4.80g, this slice occupies a middle ground between small fragments and larger display specimens, offering substantial size at an accessible price point for lunar material. The full-slice format ensures the structural features span the entire specimen, eliminating the compromises often seen in partial sections or edge fragments. Collectors building comprehensive achondrite collections will find this specimen complements \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e from basaltic sources, representing the contrasting highland lithology that covers the majority of the Moon's surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44744639152175,"sku":"BECHAR-003-4.80G-SLICE","price":215.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6770.heic?v=1765083628"},{"product_id":"bechar-003-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-4-75g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Bechar 003 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 4.75g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice of Moon material from Algeria\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.75g slice represents a complete cross-section of Bechar 003, a feldspathic breccia from the lunar highlands. The full slice format preserves the entire width of the original fragment, showing uninterrupted lunar regolith structure from edge to edge. Found in Algeria in 2022, this specimen arrived on Earth after being ejected from the Moon's surface by an asteroid impact powerful enough to achieve lunar escape velocity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias form in the Moon's ancient highlands, where repeated micrometeorite bombardment over billions of years welds together fragments of anorthositic crust. This slice displays that characteristic brecciated texture, a mosaic of angular clasts compressed into a coherent matrix. The complete format allows examination of how these fragments distribute across the specimen's full width.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated lunar highland structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice shows feldspathic breccia texture throughout, with lighter plagioclase-rich clasts embedded in a darker impact-processed matrix. These clasts represent pieces of the Moon's primordial anorthositic crust, formed when plagioclase feldspar crystallized and floated to the surface of the lunar magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. The matrix between clasts consists of finer crushed material that was melted and recrystallized during subsequent impact events.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike mare basalts, which come from the Moon's dark volcanic plains, feldspathic breccias originate from the bright highland regions that dominate the lunar far side and much of the near side visible from Earth. The absence of volcanic minerals and the abundance of plagioclase feldspar confirm this highland origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBechar 003 belongs to the feldspathic breccia category of lunar meteorites, representing material from the Moon's ancient highland crust. These specimens provide accessible samples of lunar geology without requiring spacecraft missions. The Moon has no atmosphere to burn away incoming meteoroids, so its surface accumulates impact debris that eventually gets compressed and welded into breccias like this one. An asteroid impact millions of years ago launched this material into space, where it eventually intersected Earth's orbit and fell in Algeria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites account for a tiny fraction of all meteorite finds worldwide. Most originate from the lunar highlands rather than the mare regions, giving scientists access to terrain not sampled by the Apollo missions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e for more information on how different meteorite types form and reach Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Bechar 003 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=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry\u003c\/a\u003e. This 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 refers to the high plagioclase feldspar content characteristic of the lunar highlands. Breccia describes rock composed of angular fragments that have been broken apart and fused back together by impact events. This texture records the Moon's violent impact history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The listing includes the 4.75g complete slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and protective display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this rock get from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e An asteroid impact on the Moon's surface created an explosion violent enough to accelerate debris beyond the Moon's escape velocity of 2.38 kilometers per second. The ejected fragments entered solar orbit and eventually intersected Earth's trajectory, falling as meteorites millions of years after their initial ejection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes this a complete slice?\u003c\/strong\u003e This specimen preserves the full width of the original fragment from edge to edge, rather than being a partial section or end cut. Complete slices show the entire cross-sectional structure of the meteorite, providing maximum scientific and display value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar specimen collecting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias represent the most common type of lunar meteorite available to collectors, yet remain far scarcer than any other meteorite category. The 4.75g weight provides substantial size at an accessible price point compared to smaller fragments. Complete slices command collector interest because they preserve the full structural context of the specimen rather than showing only a partial cross-section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe included display box allows immediate presentation without requiring additional stands or cases. Bechar 003's 2022 classification makes it among the more recently recognized lunar finds, adding contemporary appeal to the ancient material itself. For collectors building comprehensive holdings, this specimen represents the highland terrane that covers most of the Moon's surface. Explore additional specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44744643412015,"sku":"BECHAR-003-4.75G-SLICE","price":210.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6774.heic?v=1765083913"},{"product_id":"bechar-003-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-3-63g-w-coa-display-box-copy","title":"Bechar 003 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 3.63g, Complete Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice from lunar highlands material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 3.63g complete slice of Bechar 003 displays the characteristic brecciated texture of feldspathic lunar material. The slice preserves a cross-section through impact-fractured highland crust, showing the angular fragments and fine-grained matrix typical of feldspathic breccias. The specimen displays the light coloration consistent with anorthositic plagioclase-rich compositions that dominate the lunar highlands.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFound in Algeria in 2022, this slice represents a complete section through the meteorite, maintaining the original shape and structure of the material. The piece offers clear visibility of the brecciated fabric without polishing, preserving the natural texture of the lunar regolith that was lithified by impact processes on the Moon's surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated highland structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias form when repeated meteorite impacts fracture and mix lunar highland rocks. This specimen shows angular clasts of various sizes embedded in a fine-grained matrix, recording the violent collisional history of the lunar surface. The light-colored material indicates high concentrations of plagioclase feldspar, the mineral that gives the lunar highlands their bright appearance when viewed from Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice format allows examination of the three-dimensional distribution of clasts throughout the matrix. Individual fragments range from submillimeter to several millimeters across, representing different generations of impact processing. The cohesion of these fragments into solid rock occurred through shock lithification during subsequent impact events.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias originate from the lunar highlands, the ancient, heavily cratered terrain that covers approximately 83% of the Moon's surface. These regions preserve the Moon's primitive crust, formed when plagioclase feldspar floated to the top of the lunar magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. The resulting anorthositic rock became the substrate for billions of years of meteorite bombardment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eImpact events on the Moon excavate this ancient material and occasionally launch it into space at velocities exceeding lunar escape velocity. These fragments enter Earth-crossing orbits and eventually fall as meteorites, providing direct samples of lunar geology without the expense of sample return missions. Feldspathic breccias represent the most common type of lunar meteorite, reflecting the dominance of highland terrain on the Moon's surface. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how these materials are classified and studied.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Bechar 003 is classified as Lunar (feldspathic breccia) in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. You can verify this classification through the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eofficial MetBull entry\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its provenance and classification.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic refers to the high plagioclase feldspar content derived from lunar highland rocks. Breccia indicates the rock consists of angular fragments (clasts) cemented together by impact processes. This combination identifies material from the Moon's ancient, heavily cratered highlands rather than the darker mare basalts.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 3.63g complete slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and protective display box for storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this rock travel from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e Large asteroid or comet impacts on the lunar surface can accelerate surface material beyond the Moon's escape velocity of 2.4 km\/s. These ejected fragments enter heliocentric orbits and may eventually intersect Earth's orbit, entering the atmosphere as meteorites. The lack of weathering atmosphere on the Moon preserves surface material in pristine condition until ejection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSignificance for lunar collections\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites remain among the most sought-after specimens in meteorite collecting, representing extraterrestrial material from Earth's nearest celestial neighbor. Feldspathic breccias provide samples of the lunar highlands, the bright terrain visible to the naked eye that was never sampled by Apollo missions. The complete slice format of this 3.63g specimen offers both scientific value and display quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt this weight, the piece balances accessibility with the rarity inherent to all lunar material. The complete section preserves the original structure of the meteorite rather than showing only a cut face, making it particularly desirable for collectors who value morphological integrity. The included display box provides immediate presentation capability. Browse our complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection to compare specimens from different lunar terrains.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44744644231215,"sku":"BECHAR-003-3.63G-SLICE","price":160.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6778.heic?v=1765084188"},{"product_id":"bechar-003-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-3-19g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Bechar 003 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 3.19g, Complete Full Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete slice of classified lunar material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 3.19g slice represents a complete cross-section through a feldspathic breccia fragment from the Moon. The specimen displays angular clasts of varying sizes suspended in a fine-grained matrix, characteristic of lunar highland breccias formed by impact processes on the lunar surface. The full outline preserves the natural edges of the original fragment, providing context for the internal structure visible across the face.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBechar 003 was recovered in Algeria in 2022 and classified as a lunar feldspathic breccia, placing it among the highland-type lunar meteorites that sample the ancient anorthositic crust of the Moon. At 3.19g, this slice offers substantial size for study and display while maintaining accessibility for private collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciation and clast structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice reveals a heterogeneous texture dominated by angular mineral and lithic clasts set in a fine-grained groundmass. Light-toned feldspathic fragments appear throughout the section, reflecting the plagioclase-rich composition typical of lunar highland material. The clast boundaries remain distinct, indicating minimal thermal alteration following the impact events that assembled this breccia.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe matrix between clasts shows the compact, welded character of impact-generated lunar regolith that was lithified by subsequent impacts. This texture records the violent collisional history of the lunar highlands, where repeated meteoroid impacts over billions of years have pulverized and reassembled surface materials into the complex breccias now sampled by meteorites like Bechar 003.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias represent the ancient lunar highlands, the light-colored regions visible from Earth that cover approximately 83% of the Moon's surface. These materials formed during the Moon's magma ocean phase over 4 billion years ago, when less dense plagioclase feldspar floated to form a thick anorthositic crust. Subsequent bombardment by asteroids and comets shattered and mixed these crustal rocks, creating the complex breccias observed in highland meteorites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth after high-energy impacts on the Moon eject fragments at velocities exceeding the lunar escape velocity of 2.38 km\/s. These ejected pieces spend thousands to millions of years orbiting the Sun before intersecting Earth's orbit and falling as meteorites. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how scientists distinguish lunar material from terrestrial rocks and other meteorite types.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Bechar 003 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar feldspathic breccia based on oxygen isotope analysis, mineral chemistry, and petrographic study. The classification confirms lunar origin through diagnostic oxygen isotope ratios and mineral compositions matching Apollo mission samples. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e. A certificate of authenticity documenting the specimen's provenance accompanies this piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic breccias are lunar rocks composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar fragments (clasts) that have been broken apart and reassembled by meteoroid impacts on the Moon's surface. The term feldspathic indicates high feldspar content, while breccia describes the fragmented, clast-rich texture. These meteorites sample the Moon's ancient highland crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The specimen weighs 3.19g and includes a certificate of authenticity, custom specimen card with classification details, and protective display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Laboratory analysis measures oxygen isotope ratios, which plot along a distinct line for lunar materials that differs from Earth, Mars, and asteroid-derived meteorites. Mineral compositions, particularly plagioclase feldspar chemistry and the presence of specific pyroxene types, match Apollo lunar samples. The low iron content and absence of water-bearing minerals further confirm lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent some of the most accessible extraterrestrial materials for private collectors, offering direct samples of Earth's nearest celestial neighbor without the expense of space missions. Complete slices like this 3.19g piece preserve the full context of the original fragment's shape and internal structure, unlike partial sections or fragments. The feldspathic breccia classification places this specimen among the highland-type lunar meteorites that sample regions of the Moon not visited by Apollo or Luna missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt this weight and with full-slice morphology, the specimen balances collectibility with scientific interest. The visible clast structure provides immediate visual evidence of lunar impact processes, while the classified status and included documentation ensure long-term value. Explore additional specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Bechar%20003\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBechar 003\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2022\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44744644821039,"sku":"BECHAR-003-3.19G-SLICE","price":140.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/IMG_6782.heic?v=1765084380"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-end-cut-4-39g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite End Cut, Melt Breccia, 4.39g, Polished Interior with Natural Exterior","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete cross-section from polished interior to weathered exterior\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.39g end cut of Adrar 013 preserves both a mirror-polished interior face and unpolished natural exterior surfaces in a single complete slice. The polished face exposes the lunar melt breccia's internal structure: light-toned anorthositic norite matrix interspersed with darker mafic mineral phases frozen from impact melt. The natural exterior faces retain the weathering patina acquired during terrestrial residence in Algeria following the meteorite's fall to Earth. End cuts function as complete cross-sectional specimens, presenting the full progression from exterior weathered surface through to interior mineralogy without requiring multiple pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen size provides sufficient surface area to observe melt breccia texture under magnification while remaining accessible for collectors building lunar collections. The polish quality eliminates optical interference, allowing direct observation of mineral boundaries, clast distribution patterns, and the contact between light feldspathic matrix and darker pyroxene-rich zones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eImpact melt texture and mineral composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished face reveals the characteristic texture of lunar melt breccia: angular to sub-rounded mineral and lithic clasts suspended in a once-molten matrix that solidified rapidly under lunar vacuum conditions. Light-toned regions represent plagioclase feldspar-rich anorthositic material derived from the Moon's ancient highland crust. Darker phases correspond to pyroxene and other mafic minerals, indicating contribution from deeper crustal layers or mare basalt components excavated during impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe anorthositic norite to gabbro classification documents the mixed source lithologies melted and homogenized during the impact event. Norite contains orthopyroxene as the dominant mafic mineral, while gabbro contains clinopyroxene, and the gradation between these compositions reflects incomplete mixing in the impact melt sheet. The preserved textural heterogeneity visible in this specimen records the chaotic thermal and mechanical conditions during crater formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites originate from impact events that accelerate surface material beyond the Moon's 2.4 km\/s escape velocity. Once ejected into heliocentric orbit, these fragments travel through space until gravitational perturbations deliver them to Earth's surface. Adrar 013 was recovered in 2023 from Algeria, representing material excavated from the Moon's surface through meteoroid bombardment that has continued throughout the Moon's 4.5-billion-year history. Melt breccias like Adrar 013 specifically sample the products of large impact events energetic enough to generate substantial volumes of impact melt, distinguishing them from fragmental breccias formed through mechanical crushing alone. Study of lunar meteorites extends our understanding of lunar geology beyond the limited geographic sampling of the Apollo and Luna missions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how these specimens reach Earth and what they reveal about Solar System processes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Adrar 013 is officially classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar melt breccia with anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e. Every specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting classification, weight, and origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a melt breccia?\u003c\/strong\u003e A melt breccia is a rock composed of mineral and lithic fragments (clasts) embedded in a matrix of impact-generated melt that solidified. Unlike fragmental breccias formed purely through mechanical crushing, melt breccias contain a significant component of once-molten material produced by the extreme temperatures of large impacts. The texture records the moment of solidification when the melt froze around suspended fragments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the complete 4.39g Adrar 013 end cut with polished interior and natural exterior faces, plus a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy does one side look different from the other?\u003c\/strong\u003e The polished face was cut and polished to reveal the meteorite's internal structure and mineralogy, while the natural exterior faces were left unpolished to preserve the original weathered surface as recovered from the Algerian desert. This dual presentation provides both scientific observation capability and preservation of natural features in one specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did Moon rocks reach Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e Large meteoroid impacts on the lunar surface excavate material with enough velocity to escape the Moon's gravity. These ejected fragments orbit the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth eventually cause them to fall as meteorites. The process requires excavation velocities exceeding 2.4 km\/s, achieved only in substantial impact events.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar collecting and display value\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent the only Moon material legally available for private ownership outside of government-controlled Apollo and Luna return samples. Adrar 013's classification as a melt breccia adds scientific interest through its documentation of large-scale impact melting processes. End cuts provide maximum information density by preserving both polished and natural surfaces, making them efficient specimens for collectors prioritizing completeness over individual surface types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 4.39g mass provides display presence while remaining accessible for collectors entering lunar meteorite acquisition. The clear textural differentiation visible between light feldspathic matrix and darker mafic phases makes this specimen effective for visual demonstration of lunar crustal composition. The preserved natural exterior complements the polished interior by showing the meteorite's appearance as recovered, adding context to the prepared surface. Explore additional specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection to compare impact melt breccias with other lunar lithologies including regolith breccias, highland anorthosites, and mare basalts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745323872303,"sku":"ADRAR-013-4.39G-ENDCUT","price":200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-end-cut-4-39g-display.heic?v=1779322368"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-4-29g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite End Cut, Melt Breccia, 4.29g, Polished Interior with Natural Exterior","description":"\u003ch2\u003eDual-surface Moon rock from Algeria\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.29g end cut presents two perspectives of Adrar 013 in a single specimen. One face shows the polished cross-section, revealing the bright anorthositic norite and gabbro matrix characteristic of lunar highland material. The opposite face preserves the natural exterior surfaces as they appeared when recovered in Algeria, maintaining the weathering acquired during terrestrial residence. The contrast between polished mineralogy and unaltered exterior creates a visual record of both the meteorite's internal structure and its post-impact journey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished surface exposes the melt breccia texture formed during basin-scale lunar impacts. Fragments of highland crust remain suspended in the solidified impact melt, frozen in the configuration they held when ejected from the Moon. The end cut format provides access to this internal architecture while preserving the specimen's original surfaces, making it suitable for both study and display applications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eImpact-generated melt matrix\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished face reveals the structure of rapidly cooled impact melt. Mineral and lithic clasts appear embedded in a fine-grained matrix that crystallized when the melt solidified. The anorthositic composition reflects the highland origin of the source material, where plagioclase feldspar dominates the ancient lunar crust. Under magnification, the matrix shows the characteristic texture of material that melted and cooled during a high-energy impact event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe melt breccia structure records the mechanics of lunar crater formation. When an asteroid struck the Moon's surface, the impact energy melted surrounding highland crust and fragmented additional material into clasts. The molten rock then cooled rapidly in the vacuum environment, trapping the fragments in their impact-generated arrangement. The absence of atmospheric weathering or water alteration preserved this structure across billions of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide the only Moon samples available outside government-controlled Apollo and Luna collections. All lunar meteorites were launched from the Moon by impacts energetic enough to exceed the lunar escape velocity of 2.38 kilometers per second. These fragments then orbited the Sun until gravitational interactions brought them into collision with Earth, where they fell as meteorites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013's classification as an anorthositic melt breccia identifies it as highland material rather than mare basalt. The lunar highlands represent the Moon's primordial crust, formed over 4 billion years ago when plagioclase minerals floated to the surface during the magma ocean phase. The melt breccia texture developed during subsequent impact events that melted and mixed this ancient crustal material. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides additional context on meteorite formation and classification systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Adrar 013 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro). You can verify the classification at \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin: Adrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting the meteorite name, classification, weight, and specimen details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does anorthositic norite\/gabbro mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e This classification describes the rock's mineral composition. Anorthositic indicates high plagioclase feldspar content typical of lunar highland crust. Norite and gabbro are igneous rock types distinguished by their pyroxene minerals, with norite containing orthopyroxene and gabbro containing clinopyroxene. The classification reflects the highland origin and igneous formation of the source material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 4.29g Adrar 013 end cut and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included unless separately noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do scientists confirm lunar origin?\u003c\/strong\u003e Laboratories use multiple analytical techniques including oxygen isotope ratios, mineral chemistry, and trace element patterns. Lunar samples show distinct oxygen isotope values that differ from Earth and other planetary bodies. The anorthositic composition and lack of terrestrial weathering in the interior further confirm lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is an end cut?\u003c\/strong\u003e An end cut is a slice removed from the terminal edge of a meteorite specimen. This format preserves the original exterior surfaces on one face while exposing a polished cross-section on the opposite face, providing both external context and internal structural detail in a single piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites remain among the most sought specimens in meteorite collecting due to their direct connection to Earth's only natural satellite. The end cut format increases accessibility by preserving both exterior context and interior structure, making the specimen suitable for collectors who value scientific presentation alongside display quality. The 4.29g mass provides sufficient surface area to observe the melt breccia texture while maintaining portability and storage efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe polished face allows direct observation of the mineralogy and clast distribution that characterize lunar highland material. Combined with the preserved exterior surfaces, this specimen documents both the meteorite's formation history and its terrestrial recovery. Collectors seeking \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e often prioritize end cuts for their educational value and dual-perspective presentation. The Adrar 013 strewnfield continues to yield authenticated specimens, making this material available to private collections while maintaining scientific documentation through the Meteoritical Bulletin classification system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745392783407,"sku":"ADRAR-013-4.29G-ENDCUT","price":195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-end-cut-4-29g-display.heic?v=1779322520"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-3-36g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Full Slice, Melt Breccia, 3.36g, Polished Both Faces","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePolished both faces, a window into lunar impact melt\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 3.36g full slice of Adrar 013 has been polished on both faces, presenting matching mirror surfaces that reveal the meteorite's interior structure on either side. The slice shows the characteristic appearance of lunar melt breccia: a light-toned anorthositic matrix interspersed with darker mafic mineral phases, all frozen in place from the impact melt that formed this rock on the Moon's surface. As a full slice rather than an end cut, every face is finished, making it ideal for display from either orientation or for educational use where both sides need to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is classified as a lunar melt breccia of anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. The petrographic description from the Meteoritical Bulletin identifies an anorthite-rich melt rock matrix exhibiting flow and quench textures, with acicular crystals nucleating on entrained mineral grains. The major mineral phases are pigeonite, often-zoned augite, and less abundant olivine, with accessory ilmenite, chromite, and troilite. This 3.36g slice exposes that mineralogy across two polished surfaces, allowing direct visual study of the impact-melt fabric without the obscuring effects of weathering rind. The slice carries a high shock stage assignment, consistent with formation in a major impact event on the lunar surface, and a low weathering grade, indicating limited terrestrial alteration since its arrival on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 was recovered in 2023 in the Adrar region of Algeria and purchased from a dealer in Timokten. The Meteoritical Bulletin reports a total known weight of 3.15 kg, with the largest single stone weighing 3 kg. Classification was carried out by A. Greshake at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and applies the reference framework of Stoeffler et al. (1980) for lunar lithologies. The meteorite was published as an official lunar in Meteoritical Bulletin 113 in 2025. Lunar meteorites of any classification are rare, with the total recognized lunar inventory representing a small fraction of all classified meteorites, and impact melt breccias like Adrar 013 capture a specific moment in lunar surface geology when an impact event melted and reassembled near-surface material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this is from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar classification relies on bulk chemistry, mineralogy, and oxygen isotope ratios that match returned Apollo and Luna samples. Adrar 013 was classified by a recognized lunar specialist at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and published in the Meteoritical Bulletin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does anorthositic norite\/gabbro mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e It describes the source rock composition: dominated by calcium-rich plagioclase (anorthite) with pyroxene and minor olivine, typical of lunar highland and near-highland lithologies that have been reassembled by impact melting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this slice polished on both faces?\u003c\/strong\u003e Full slices are cut with parallel faces and finished on both sides so the entire specimen can be displayed or studied from either orientation. End cuts, by contrast, keep one natural exterior face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I care for it?\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the specimen in a dry environment and handle the polished faces with cotton gloves or by the edges. Lunar meteorites do not contain reactive iron metal in the quantities that iron meteorites do, but oils and moisture can still dull a polished surface over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 3.36g full slice, a numbered Certificate of Authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., a specimen card with classification details, and a display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is a recently published lunar meteorite, recognized as official in 2025, which makes well-documented slices of it desirable for both new and established lunar collectors. The combination of a manageable total known weight (3.15 kg), a clear classification by a major institution, and full polishing on both faces makes this 3.36g specimen useful for display, study, and educational presentation. Explore more lunar material in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e and learn more in our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003eWhat Is a Lunar Meteorite?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745400680495,"sku":"ADRAR-013-3.36G-SLICE","price":150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-full-slice-3-36g-display.heic?v=1779321028"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-2-67g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Melt Breccia, 2.67g, Complete Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete cross-section preserving impact melt structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2.67g slice captures the full width of Adrar 013, presenting an uninterrupted view from edge to edge through the specimen's impact-generated matrix. The cross-section format reveals how the once-molten material cooled and solidified, preserving angular clasts of anorthositic norite and gabbro suspended within the fine-grained melt matrix. Edge-to-edge continuity allows observation of textural variations across the entire specimen without interruption.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice's uniform thickness maintains consistent light transmission properties across its surface, making the contrast between darker mafic fragments and lighter anorthositic components readily visible. This geometric completeness distinguishes the piece from partial sections or end cuts, offering a representative sample of the internal structure throughout the meteorite's original mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAnorthositic clasts in impact melt matrix\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen displays the characteristic two-phase texture of lunar melt breccias: a fine-grained matrix formed from completely liquefied material surrounding angular fragments that remained partially solid during the impact event. The anorthositic components appear as lighter-toned regions, reflecting the plagioclase-rich composition of the Moon's ancient highland crust. Darker clasts represent the norite and gabbro components, indicating excavation from deeper crustal layers where pyroxene concentrations increase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClast boundaries remain sharp and well-defined, showing minimal reaction between fragments and matrix during cooling. This preservation indicates rapid solidification following the impact that generated the melt, consistent with ejection into the lunar vacuum where radiative cooling proceeds efficiently. The distribution of clast sizes and orientations records the turbulent mixing that occurred while the material remained molten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 originated in the Moon's highland regions, where anorthositic rocks formed during the cooling of a primordial magma ocean approximately 4.4 billion years ago. The presence of norite and gabbro alongside anorthosite indicates the impact that created this melt breccia excavated through multiple stratigraphic layers, mixing ancient crustal material with younger intrusive rocks. This compositional mixing provides evidence for the Moon's differentiated internal structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth only after impact events deliver sufficient energy to accelerate fragments beyond the Moon's escape velocity of 2.4 km\/s. The specimen's recovery in Algeria in 2023 adds to the limited sample of lunar material available outside government collections. Understanding lunar geology through meteorites complements spacecraft sample returns and \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eprovides context for planetary formation processes\u003c\/a\u003e throughout the inner solar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. The Meteoritical Society classified Adrar 013 as a lunar melt breccia with anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. You can verify this classification in the \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin database\u003c\/a\u003e. The specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a melt breccia?\u003c\/strong\u003e A melt breccia forms when hypervelocity impacts generate sufficient heat to partially or completely melt target rocks, which then cool rapidly while mixed with solid fragments. The resulting rock contains both crystallized melt matrix and angular clasts of material that remained solid during the impact event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does the anorthositic composition indicate?\u003c\/strong\u003e Anorthosite dominates the Moon's ancient highland crust, forming the bright regions visible from Earth. The anorthositic composition in this specimen confirms its origin from highland terrain rather than the darker, basalt-rich maria that cover portions of the lunar surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 2.67g slice ships with a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this material travel from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e A meteoroid impact on the lunar surface ejected fragments at velocities exceeding 2.4 km\/s, allowing them to escape the Moon's gravitational field. These fragments orbited the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth captured them, resulting in their atmospheric entry and recovery in Algeria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent the only Moon rocks legally available to private collectors, as Apollo samples and robotic return missions remain in government custody. The 2.67g mass provides substantial material for study while remaining accessible to collectors building representative planetary specimen sets. The complete slice format maximizes observable surface area relative to weight, allowing detailed examination of the impact melt texture and clast distribution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013's recent classification in 2023 places it among the newest additions to the lunar meteorite inventory. The anorthositic composition links the specimen directly to the Moon's primordial crust, offering a tangible connection to the earliest stages of lunar differentiation. Collectors seeking scientifically significant material from the Moon's surface will find this specimen represents both the highland crust and the impact processes that have shaped lunar geology for billions of years. Browse additional specimens from Earth's celestial neighbor in the \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745404219439,"sku":"ADRAR-013-2.67G-SLICE","price":120.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-slice-2-67g-display.heic?v=1779322681"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-2-81g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Full Slice, Melt Breccia, 2.81g, Polished Both Faces","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePolished both faces, a window into lunar impact melt\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2.81g full slice of Adrar 013 has been polished on both faces, presenting matching mirror surfaces that reveal the meteorite's interior structure on either side. The slice shows the characteristic appearance of lunar melt breccia: a light-toned anorthositic matrix interspersed with darker mafic mineral phases, all frozen in place from the impact melt that formed this rock on the Moon's surface. As a full slice rather than an end cut, every face is finished, making it ideal for display from either orientation or for educational use where both sides need to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is classified as a lunar melt breccia of anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. The petrographic description from the Meteoritical Bulletin identifies an anorthite-rich melt rock matrix exhibiting flow and quench textures, with acicular crystals nucleating on entrained mineral grains. The major mineral phases are pigeonite, often-zoned augite, and less abundant olivine, with accessory ilmenite, chromite, and troilite. This 2.81g slice exposes that mineralogy across two polished surfaces, allowing direct visual study of the impact-melt fabric without the obscuring effects of weathering rind. The slice carries a high shock stage assignment, consistent with formation in a major impact event on the lunar surface, and a low weathering grade, indicating limited terrestrial alteration since its arrival on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 was recovered in 2023 in the Adrar region of Algeria and purchased from a dealer in Timokten. The Meteoritical Bulletin reports a total known weight of 3.15 kg, with the largest single stone weighing 3 kg. Classification was carried out by A. Greshake at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and applies the reference framework of Stoeffler et al. (1980) for lunar lithologies. The meteorite was published as an official lunar in Meteoritical Bulletin 113 in 2025. Lunar meteorites of any classification are rare, with the total recognized lunar inventory representing a small fraction of all classified meteorites, and impact melt breccias like Adrar 013 capture a specific moment in lunar surface geology when an impact event melted and reassembled near-surface material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this is from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar classification relies on bulk chemistry, mineralogy, and oxygen isotope ratios that match returned Apollo and Luna samples. Adrar 013 was classified by a recognized lunar specialist at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and published in the Meteoritical Bulletin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does anorthositic norite\/gabbro mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e It describes the source rock composition: dominated by calcium-rich plagioclase (anorthite) with pyroxene and minor olivine, typical of lunar highland and near-highland lithologies that have been reassembled by impact melting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this slice polished on both faces?\u003c\/strong\u003e Full slices are cut with parallel faces and finished on both sides so the entire specimen can be displayed or studied from either orientation. End cuts, by contrast, keep one natural exterior face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I care for it?\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the specimen in a dry environment and handle the polished faces with cotton gloves or by the edges. Lunar meteorites do not contain reactive iron metal in the quantities that iron meteorites do, but oils and moisture can still dull a polished surface over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 2.81g full slice, a numbered Certificate of Authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., a specimen card with classification details, and a display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is a recently published lunar meteorite, recognized as official in 2025, which makes well-documented slices of it desirable for both new and established lunar collectors. The combination of a manageable total known weight (3.15 kg), a clear classification by a major institution, and full polishing on both faces makes this 2.81g specimen useful for display, study, and educational presentation. Explore more lunar material in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e and learn more in our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003eWhat Is a Lunar Meteorite?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745409560623,"sku":"ADRAR-013-2.81G-SLICE","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-full-slice-2-81g-display.heic?v=1779321784"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-melt-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-2-77g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Full Slice, Melt Breccia, 2.77g, Polished Both Faces","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePolished both faces, a window into lunar impact melt\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2.77g full slice of Adrar 013 has been polished on both faces, presenting matching mirror surfaces that reveal the meteorite's interior structure on either side. The slice shows the characteristic appearance of lunar melt breccia: a light-toned anorthositic matrix interspersed with darker mafic mineral phases, all frozen in place from the impact melt that formed this rock on the Moon's surface. As a full slice rather than an end cut, every face is finished, making it suitable for display from either orientation or for educational use where both sides need to be visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is classified as a lunar melt breccia of anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. The petrographic description from the Meteoritical Bulletin identifies an anorthite-rich melt rock matrix exhibiting flow and quench textures, with acicular crystals nucleating on entrained mineral grains. The major mineral phases are pigeonite, often-zoned augite, and less abundant olivine, with accessory ilmenite, chromite, and troilite. This 2.77g slice exposes that mineralogy across two polished surfaces, allowing direct visual study of the impact-melt fabric without the obscuring effects of weathering rind. The slice carries a high shock stage assignment, consistent with formation in a major impact event on the lunar surface, and a low weathering grade, indicating limited terrestrial alteration since its arrival on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 was recovered in 2023 in the Adrar region of Algeria and purchased from a dealer in Timokten. The Meteoritical Bulletin reports a total known weight of 3.15 kg, with the largest single stone weighing 3 kg. Classification was carried out by A. Greshake at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and applies the reference framework of Stoeffler et al. (1980) for lunar lithologies. The meteorite was published as an official lunar in Meteoritical Bulletin 113 in 2025. Lunar meteorites of any classification are rare, with the total recognized lunar inventory representing a small fraction of all classified meteorites, and impact melt breccias like Adrar 013 capture a specific moment in lunar surface geology when an impact event melted and reassembled near-surface material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this is from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar classification relies on bulk chemistry, mineralogy, and oxygen isotope ratios that match returned Apollo and Luna samples. Adrar 013 was classified by a recognized lunar specialist at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin and published in the Meteoritical Bulletin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does anorthositic norite\/gabbro mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e It describes the source rock composition: dominated by calcium-rich plagioclase (anorthite) with pyroxene and minor olivine, typical of lunar highland and near-highland lithologies that have been reassembled by impact melting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this slice polished on both faces?\u003c\/strong\u003e Full slices are cut with parallel faces and finished on both sides so the entire specimen can be displayed or studied from either orientation. End cuts, by contrast, keep one natural exterior face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should I care for it?\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the specimen in a dry environment and handle the polished faces with cotton gloves or by the edges. Lunar meteorites do not contain reactive iron metal in the quantities that iron meteorites do, but oils and moisture can still dull a polished surface over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 2.77g full slice, a numbered Certificate of Authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., a specimen card with classification details, and a display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is a recently published lunar meteorite, recognized as official in 2025, which makes well-documented slices of it desirable for both new and established lunar collectors. The combination of a manageable total known weight (3.15 kg), a clear classification by a major institution, and full polishing on both faces makes this 2.77g specimen useful for display, study, and educational presentation. Explore more lunar material in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e and learn more in our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003eWhat Is a Lunar Meteorite?\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44745410019375,"sku":"ADRAR-013-2.77G-SLICE","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-full-slice-2-77g-display.heic?v=1779324148"},{"product_id":"guemar-002","title":"Guemar 002 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Lunar (basalt) unbrecciated, 45.92g, Complete Fusion Crust","description":"\u003cp\u003eGuemar 002 is one of 33 approved meteorites in the world classified as \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar (basalt)\u003c\/a\u003e. This 45.92g complete individual was among four oriented stones discovered together on February 10, 2023, in El-Alia, Touggurt Province, Algeria, all four retaining fresh fusion crust on recovery. This stone preserves that crust intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe specimen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis 45.92g stone is a complete, unmodified individual with no cuts, polishing, or preparation beyond documentation. The exterior carries a black, shiny fusion crust, the glassy veneer formed during atmospheric entry, preserved here in fresh condition. The interior is gray, consistent with the fine-grained basaltic mineralogy confirmed by thin section analysis at the Cascadia Meteorite Laboratory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 45.92g, this specimen sits well above the 1 to 20g range that defines most complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar individuals\u003c\/a\u003e reaching the private market. More importantly, it is unbrecciated, a categorical distinction from the regolith and impact-melt breccias that constitute the large majority of recovered lunar material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eClassification and scientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGuemar 002 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin (MB 114, approved July 25, 2025) as Lunar (basalt), recovered from Ouargla, Algeria. Classification was performed by V. Mugica, D. Sheikh, and M. Hutson at the Cascadia Meteorite Laboratory, Portland State University. The type specimen, 20.1g, is held at Cascadia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe unbrecciated designation is the scientifically significant feature of this specimen. The Moon's surface has been heavily reworked by impacts across billions of years, and nearly all lunar material ejected to Earth arrives as regolith breccia, fragmented and compacted surface debris. A rock that escaped that processing preserves its primary igneous fabric from the original lava cooling event intact. To understand how meteorites are classified, see our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003ehow meteorites are classified\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThin section analysis documents a sub-ophitic texture with shock melt pockets. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eMaskelynite\u003c\/a\u003e laths are distributed throughout the sample. Maskelynite is plagioclase feldspar converted to amorphous glass by hypervelocity shock pressures, retaining the original chemical composition and lath morphology of the feldspar while losing its crystalline structure. Its presence records the impact event that launched the rock off the Moon. The published shock stage is M-S5. Olivine grains show zoned compositions with magnesian cores and thin Fe-rich rims, and pyroxene grains display complex zonation, consistent with a slowly cooled igneous rock subjected to later shock processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePublished geochemistry by SEM-EDS (Cascadia, lab number CML 1816): olivine Fa50.8±15.6 (Fe\/Mn=92±6, n=19); pigeonite Fs52.4±10.5Wo15.1±2.9 (Fe\/Mn=60±6, n=10); high-Ca pyroxene Fs40.6±11.0Wo25.5±11.0 (Fe\/Mn=57±8, n=18); maskelynite An87.6±0.7 (n=19). Minor sulfides, phosphates, and titanomagnetite are also present. Classification as lunar basalt is based on texture, grain size, and mineral chemistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese lavas originated from partial melting of the lunar mantle and flooded impact basins between approximately 3.9 and 3.0 billion years ago, forming the dark maria visible from Earth. Apollo sampling covered only the equatorial near-side; \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e like Guemar 002 extend the sampled volcanic geology of the Moon beyond the mission footprint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAcquisition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is offered via private sale. Purchase may be completed by bank wire transfer following invoice and confirmation of terms. A formal invoice and purchase agreement will be issued prior to payment. Escrow is available for qualified buyers upon request. Delivery is arranged through insured \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/white-glove-service-1\"\u003ewhite-glove shipping\u003c\/a\u003e with coordinated handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen ships with a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. (IMCA #3323) documenting its Meteoritical Bulletin classification and provenance. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSerious acquisition inquiries only. Contact \u003ca href=\"mailto:brian@tcmeteorites.com\"\u003ebrian@tcmeteorites.com\u003c\/a\u003e or visit our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/white-glove-service-1\"\u003eWhite Glove Service\u003c\/a\u003e page for institutional and private treaty inquiries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Guemar 002 officially classified?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Guemar 002 is approved in the Meteoritical Bulletin, MB 114 (approved July 25, 2025), as Lunar (basalt), recovered from Ouargla, Algeria on February 10, 2023. Classification was conducted by V. Mugica, D. Sheikh, and M. Hutson at the Cascadia Meteorite Laboratory, Portland State University.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"unbrecciated\" mean and why does it matter?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nUnbrecciated means the rock has not been shattered and re-cemented by later impact processes. It preserves the original igneous texture from when the lava cooled on the Moon. Most \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e are breccias, mixtures of rock fragments produced by billions of years of surface gardening. Unbrecciated mare basalts are substantially less common and represent primary volcanic material rather than mixed surface debris.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is maskelynite and what does it indicate?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eMaskelynite\u003c\/a\u003e is plagioclase feldspar converted to amorphous glass by hypervelocity shock, without melting. It retains the original chemical composition and lath morphology of the feldspar while losing its crystalline structure. Its presence records the impact event that launched the rock off the Moon. The published shock stage for this specimen is M-S5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is lunar origin confirmed?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nLunar meteorites plot on the terrestrial oxygen isotope fractionation line but differ from Earth rocks in mineral chemistry and volatile content. Combined with petrographic features matching Apollo samples, the sub-ophitic igneous texture, and diagnostic FeO\/MnO ratios in olivine and pyroxene consistent with lunar basalts, these indicators confirm lunar origin. For more on how \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e are identified, see our Learn section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat documentation is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. (IMCA #3323) referencing the Meteoritical Bulletin entry for Guemar 002, MB 114. Classification imagery is available upon request.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=85278\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eGuemar 002\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (basalt) | Find, El-Alia, Ouargla, Algeria, 2023 Feb 10 | MB 114, approved July 25, 2025 | Classifier: V. Mugica, D. Sheikh, and M. Hutson, Cascadia Meteorite Laboratory | Type specimen: 20.1g, Cascadia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOffered by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional authenticated lunar specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44758967189551,"sku":"GUEMAR-002-45.92G-INDIVIDUAL","price":45000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/FullSizeRender_935f4cdc-b7d3-4c5f-b9c5-f41a49ef2cf0.heic?v=1766171755"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-4-60g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 4.60g, Cross-Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLunar feldspathic breccia slice from the Moon's highlands\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.60g slice preserves a cross-section of Rabt Sbayta 007, a feldspathic breccia from the lunar highlands. The specimen displays the characteristic pale matrix of plagioclase feldspar-dominated material, representing the ancient anorthositic crust that defines the Moon's bright highland terrain. The slice format captures the full thickness of the meteorite fragment, providing a display piece that shows both surfaces and the internal structure in a single specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias form when high-velocity impacts on the lunar surface shatter and mix highland rocks, creating a consolidated mixture of angular clasts and finer matrix material. This specimen originated from the Moon's farside or polar highlands, where ancient cratering events continue to rework the feldspar-rich crust. A subsequent impact launched this material into space, where it drifted until intersecting Earth's orbit and landing in Western Sahara in 2017.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar highland composition and texture\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice exhibits the pale gray coloration typical of feldspathic material, dominated by calcium-rich plagioclase feldspar that formed during the lunar magma ocean differentiation approximately 4.4 billion years ago. Angular mineral fragments appear throughout the matrix, evidence of the impact processes that created this breccia. The surfaces show the fusion crust characteristics of atmospheric entry, though the interior reveals the primary brecciated texture formed on the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias contain higher concentrations of aluminum and calcium compared to mare basalts, reflecting their origin in the primordial lunar crust. This specimen's classification confirms its lunar origin through oxygen isotope ratios, noble gas compositions, and mineral chemistry that match Apollo sample data from highland collection sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide the only samples from the Moon available to private collectors and researchers outside of government-controlled Apollo and Luna mission returns. Feldspathic breccias represent the Moon's ancient highland terrains, the light-colored regions visible from Earth that contrast with the darker maria. These meteorites record impact gardening processes that have continuously modified the lunar surface for over four billion years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Moon lacks plate tectonics and atmospheric weathering, preserving impact structures and surface processes that have been erased on Earth. Studying feldspathic breccias reveals the composition of the original lunar crust and documents the intense bombardment history of the inner solar system. This specimen contributes to understanding highland lithologies from regions never sampled by human missions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to discover how scientists classify and authenticate lunar specimens.\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 in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar feldspathic breccia. You can verify the classification at: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a feldspathic breccia?\u003c\/strong\u003e A feldspathic breccia is a rock composed primarily of plagioclase feldspar fragments that have been broken apart and cemented together by impact processes. On the Moon, these breccias form in the ancient highland crust when meteorite impacts shatter feldspar-rich rocks and fuse the debris into cohesive specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 4.60g slice, a certificate of authenticity, a specimen information card with classification details, and a protective display box designed for long-term storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this reach Earth from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e A high-energy asteroid or comet impact on the lunar surface ejected this material at velocities exceeding the Moon's escape velocity of 2.4 km\/s. The fragment orbited the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth captured it, resulting in atmospheric entry and recovery in Western Sahara.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I display this without special storage?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are stable under normal indoor conditions. The display box protects the specimen from handling and dust accumulation while allowing clear viewing. The fusion crust and internal structure remain visible through the box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent approximately 0.3% of all classified meteorite falls and finds, making them substantially rarer than most iron and stony meteorite types. Complete slices that preserve the full thickness of the original fragment offer display advantages over partial sections, showing both the exterior fusion crust and interior brecciated structure simultaneously. At 4.60g, this specimen provides a substantial example of highland material at a size that displays well while remaining accessible to collectors building comprehensive Moon rock collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe feldspathic breccia classification connects this specimen to the Moon's most ancient crustal components, material that predates the mare basalt flows by hundreds of millions of years. Collectors seeking examples of primordial planetary differentiation processes value feldspathic specimens for their scientific context and their representation of terrains that dominate the lunar farside. The included display box and documentation support both personal enjoyment and potential future education or research applications. Browse our complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection to compare highland and mare specimens from Earth's only natural satellite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" 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":44765144842287,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-4.60G-SLICE","price":205.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/F4DAB7DB-3365-4D4E-96CF-A309C3556C73.jpg?v=1765777578"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-2-36g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 2.36g, Complete Cross-Section","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete lunar slice preserving feldspathic highland material\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 2.36g complete slice of Rabt Sbayta 007 captures a cross-section of lunar highland crust ejected from the Moon's surface during an ancient impact. The feldspathic breccia composition reflects the Moon's anorthositic highlands, regions dominated by plagioclase feldspar that crystallized from the lunar magma ocean over 4 billion years ago. The slice displays the brecciated texture characteristic of lunar regolith materials that experienced multiple impact events before final ejection to Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 originates from a strewn field discovered in 2017 in Western Sahara. This specimen represents material from the Moon's ancient crust, offering direct access to lunar geology without the complexity of sample return missions. The complete slice format preserves the full thickness of the meteorite, showing the transition from interior structure to exterior surfaces shaped by atmospheric entry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciation and feldspathic composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe slice exhibits a fragmental breccia texture composed predominantly of plagioclase feldspar clasts embedded in a fine-grained matrix. This composition matches the lunar highlands, which cover approximately 83% of the Moon's surface and represent the oldest preserved crustal material. Individual mineral fragments visible in the slice formed during the crystallization of the lunar magma ocean, then underwent repeated fracturing and lithification through impact gardening processes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe feldspathic classification indicates a composition enriched in calcium-aluminum silicates relative to mare basalts. These minerals reflect the differentiation processes that separated light plagioclase from denser mafic minerals early in lunar history. The brecciated structure records the violent impact environment of the lunar surface, where meteoroid bombardment continuously pulverizes and remixes surface materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eLunar highlands and ancient impact processes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias like Rabt Sbayta 007 derive from the Moon's highlands, which formed during the solidification of the primordial lunar magma ocean between 4.5 and 4.4 billion years ago. As the magma ocean cooled, low-density plagioclase crystals floated to form a global anorthositic crust. This ancient crust preserves a record of conditions during the earliest phase of lunar evolution, before extensive mare volcanism resurfaced portions of the near side.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe specimen reached Earth following a high-velocity impact on the Moon that generated sufficient energy to accelerate fragments beyond lunar escape velocity of 2.38 km\/s. Material excavated from depths of several meters to kilometers entered Earth-crossing orbits, eventually falling in the Western Sahara desert where arid conditions favored preservation. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand the mechanisms of planetary ejection and meteorite classification systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\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 the classification at \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 MetBull entry\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting weight, classification, and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does feldspathic breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Feldspathic indicates a composition dominated by plagioclase feldspar minerals, characteristic of lunar highland crust. Breccia describes a rock composed of angular fragments cemented together by impact processes. This classification distinguishes highland samples from mare basalts, which are iron- and magnesium-rich volcanic rocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The 2.36g slice, certificate of authenticity, custom specimen card with classification details, and protective display box for secure storage and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are identified through oxygen isotope ratios, mineral chemistry, and bulk composition that match Apollo samples and lunar remote sensing data. Feldspathic breccias show characteristic anorthositic composition and trace element patterns that exclude terrestrial or asteroidal origins.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I display this specimen safely?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Lunar meteorites are stable at standard temperature and humidity. The included display box protects the specimen from handling and dust accumulation while allowing clear viewing of surface features and internal structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSignificance for lunar meteorite collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites constitute less than 0.1% of all classified meteorite falls and finds worldwide. Rabt Sbayta 007 provides access to highland crust composition at a fraction of the cost and regulatory complexity of Apollo samples. The complete slice format demonstrates the full thickness and internal structure of the meteorite, from exterior surfaces to interior crystalline regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 2.36g specimen offers an entry point for collectors building representative suites of planetary materials. The feldspathic composition complements mare basalt samples, together documenting the major lithological units of the lunar surface. The display-ready format and accompanying documentation support educational applications and long-term collection preservation. Explore additional specimens in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection.\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":44765158375471,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-2.36G-SLICE","price":105.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/08A156BD-EE72-4BD9-8C5F-CE9CC1F12294.jpg?v=1765777977"},{"product_id":"rabt-sbayta-007-lunar-meteorite-feldspathic-breccia-moon-rock-full-slice-2-60g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 2.60g, Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eLunar slice with visible brecciation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2.60g slice of Rabt Sbayta 007 displays the characteristic texture of a feldspathic breccia, angular fragments of lunar highland crust embedded in a fine-grained matrix. The slice preserves the full cross-section of the original fragment, showing variation in clast density and size distribution across the specimen. Lighter feldspathic clasts contrast against darker matrix material, creating natural visual zonation within the slice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias form when impact events on the lunar surface shatter and mix older crustal rocks. The resulting fragments lithify under the heat and pressure of subsequent impacts, creating the consolidated breccia texture visible in this specimen. At 2.60g, this slice represents a complete section suitable for both study and display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar highland breccia structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen shows angular to subangular clasts ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters in diameter. These lithic fragments originated from the lunar highlands, the ancient, heavily cratered regions that dominate the Moon's far side and much of the near side outside the maria. The clasts consist primarily of plagioclase feldspar, the mineral that gives the lunar highlands their light color when viewed from Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fine-grained matrix binding these clasts formed from pulverized rock and impact melt during the brecciation process. This matrix material filled spaces between larger fragments and solidified to create the coherent rock structure. The boundaries between clasts and matrix remain clearly defined throughout the slice, documenting the mechanical mixing that occurred during formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 belongs to the feldspathic breccia category of lunar meteorites, representing material from the Moon's ancient crust. The lunar highlands formed over 4 billion years ago as the Moon's initial magma ocean crystallized, with low-density plagioclase feldspar floating to the surface to create the anorthositic crust. Billions of years of impact bombardment subsequently fractured and mixed this crustal material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth after high-energy asteroid impacts on the Moon launch surface material into space at velocities exceeding the Moon's escape velocity of 2.38 km\/s. These fragments orbit the Sun until gravitational interactions bring them into Earth's path. Feldspathic breccias like Rabt Sbayta 007 provide ground truth data for lunar highland composition, complementing analyses from Apollo samples collected exclusively from near-side regions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand the broader context of meteorite classification and origins.\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 Database. You can verify this classification at the official \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry\u003c\/a\u003e. This 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 predominantly of feldspar-rich fragments (clasts) that have been broken apart and recemented by impact processes. The term feldspathic indicates high plagioclase feldspar content, characteristic of lunar highland material, while breccia refers to the fragmented and lithified texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 2.60g lunar meteorite slice, certificate of authenticity, specimen card with classification details, and protective display box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do we know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites are identified through multiple diagnostic criteria including oxygen isotope ratios, mineral chemistry, and trace element patterns that match Apollo return samples and differ from all terrestrial and other planetary materials. The feldspar composition and lack of weathering alteration products further confirm lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I display this slice without additional protection?\u003c\/strong\u003e The specimen arrives in a display box suitable for immediate presentation. The slice is stable at room temperature and normal humidity. While lunar meteorites are less susceptible to terrestrial weathering than iron meteorites, long-term display in a case or the provided box protects the specimen from handling and environmental exposure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent some of the most accessible extraterrestrial material available to private collectors, offering direct ownership of Moon rock without the restrictions governing Apollo samples. Rabt Sbayta 007, classified in 2018, comes from a find that yielded material distributed to researchers and collectors worldwide. This complete slice format preserves the spatial relationships between clasts and matrix, making it more scientifically informative than partial fragments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2.60g size provides substantial material for display while remaining accessible compared to larger lunar specimens. The slice format allows examination of internal structure impossible with exterior-only individuals, revealing the brecciation texture that documents the Moon's impact history. For collectors building representative suites of planetary materials, feldspathic breccias like this specimen complement mare basalts and other lunar rock types. Browse our complete selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to compare different lunar rock types and find dates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" 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":44765159063599,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-2.60G-SLICE","price":115.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/17CA603D-2ED3-43D7-B2F1-9D9CA0A18985.jpg?v=1765778100"},{"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-4-0g-w-coa-display-box","title":"Rabt Sbayta 007 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Feldspathic Breccia, 4.00g, Slice","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete lunar highlands specimen from Earth's closest celestial neighbor\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 4.00g slice of Rabt Sbayta 007 preserves a cross-section of lunar feldspathic breccia, representing material from the Moon's ancient anorthositic highlands. The slice captures the brecciated texture characteristic of lunar regolith that has been repeatedly impact-processed over billions of years. Feldspathic breccias form when meteorite impacts on the lunar surface pulverize and compact older highland rocks, creating a mosaic of angular mineral fragments bound together in a fine-grained matrix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRabt Sbayta 007 was recovered in 2017 from Western Sahara as part of a small group of paired lunar finds. This complete slice offers collectors the full visual context of the meteorite's internal structure without the limitations of partial fragments or end cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated lunar regolith structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe feldspathic breccia classification indicates this specimen consists predominantly of plagioclase feldspar fragments derived from the Moon's primordial anorthositic crust. Under magnification, the slice reveals angular clasts of varying sizes embedded in a darker, fine-grained matrix. This texture records the violent history of the lunar surface, where impacts shatter bedrock and weld fragments together through shock compression and local melting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe slice format preserves both faces of the meteorite, showing how brecciation extends throughout the specimen. Light-toned feldspar clasts contrast with darker shock-melt regions, creating the mottled appearance typical of feldspathic lunar breccias.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias originate from the Moon's highlands, which formed approximately 4.4 billion years ago when plagioclase feldspar crystallized and floated to the surface of the lunar magma ocean. Unlike the darker basaltic mare regions visible from Earth, the highlands represent the Moon's original crust. Impact gardening over billions of years has reworked this material repeatedly, creating the complex brecciated texture preserved in specimens like Rabt Sbayta 007.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites reach Earth after large asteroid impacts excavate material from the Moon's surface with sufficient velocity to escape lunar gravity. These fragments orbit the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth capture them. The \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e page provides additional context on how planetary materials travel through space to become meteorites in terrestrial collections.\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 in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar feldspathic breccia. The complete MetBull entry can be accessed through the classification reference at the end of this listing. This 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 refers to the high plagioclase feldspar content derived from the lunar highlands crust. Breccia describes the fragmented, impact-welded texture where angular rock and mineral clasts are bound together in a matrix. This texture forms when meteorite impacts shatter and recompact surface materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This listing includes the 4.00g complete lunar meteorite slice, a certificate of authenticity, a custom specimen card with classification details, and a display box for protection and presentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow rare are lunar meteorites?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites represent less than 1% of all classified meteorites. Only about 370 kilograms of lunar material has been recovered worldwide as meteorites, compared to thousands of tons of other meteorite types. Feldspathic breccias from the highlands are less common than basaltic lunar meteorites from the maria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I see the lunar origin in this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The brecciated texture and light-toned feldspar clasts are visible features consistent with lunar highland material. Laboratory analysis confirming the lunar origin examines oxygen isotope ratios, which match Apollo mission samples, and mineral chemistry that differs distinctly from terrestrial or other planetary rocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide the only way for private collectors to own material from the Moon. While Apollo and Luna missions returned samples under government custody, meteorites like Rabt Sbayta 007 enter the commercial market through legitimate recovery and classification processes. The slice format offers display advantages over partial fragments, preserving both faces and the full internal structure of the specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 4.00g, this piece balances accessibility with scientific substance. The feldspathic breccia composition represents the Moon's primordial crust, offering different geological context than the basaltic mare meteorites that dominate some collections. For collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e holdings, highland feldspathic specimens provide essential representation of the Moon's crustal diversity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=Rabt%20Sbayta%20007\u0026amp;sfor=names\" rel=\"noopener\" 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":44765162438703,"sku":"RABT-SBAYTA-007-4.00G-SLICE","price":180.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/B35F2EEC-9607-4A79-BAF7-617FBA6A4B83.jpg?v=1765778334"},{"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":"adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-complete-individual-142-14g-w-coa","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite, Lunar Melt Breccia, 142.20g, Complete Individual","description":"\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is one of 60 approved meteorites classified as \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar (melt breccia)\u003c\/a\u003e. This 142.20g complete individual records the Moon's impact history in frozen detail: flow-banded melt matrix wrapping angular clasts of anorthositic norite and gabbro, with acicular crystals nucleating on entrained mineral grains in the quench zones. Complete lunar individuals over 100 grams rarely reach the private market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eThe specimen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eThis 142.20g stone is a complete, unmodified individual with no cuts, polishing, or preparation beyond documentation. The surface displays the grayish-green coloration characteristic of this stone, consistent with the anorthosite-rich melt matrix described in the MetBull writeup. Flow banding sweeps through the exposed faces, wrapping around millimeter-scale clasts that project in relief from the dark melt matrix. The contrast between light crustal fragments and the impact-generated matrix is visible across multiple orientations, giving the piece strong display presence from several viewing angles. No fusion crust is present on this specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eAt 142.20g, this specimen sits well above the 1 to 20g range that defines most complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar individuals\u003c\/a\u003e reaching the private market. The total known mass of Adrar 013 is 3.15 kg distributed across several institutional and private holders. A complete three-digit-gram individual from this material is a centerpiece-tier specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eClassification and scientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin (MB 113, approved February 14, 2024) as Lunar (melt breccia), purchased in Timokten, Algeria in 2023. Classification was performed by A. Greshake at the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin. The type specimen, 20.5g, is held at MNB Berlin. Classification follows the Stoeffler et al. (1980) lunar highland rock nomenclature system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eThe anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition links the material to the Moon's ancient feldspathic highlands, formed approximately 4.4 billion years ago when the lunar magma ocean crystallized and plagioclase feldspar floated to form the primordial crust. The mixture of norite and gabbro clasts indicates sampling from a stratigraphic sequence where both rock types coexist in the lower highland crust, likely excavated to the surface by a later large impact. Calcic plagioclase compositions of An95.8±0.8 confirm the anorthositic character of the source lithology and are consistent with lunar highland crustal material rather than mare basalt. To understand how \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites are classified\u003c\/a\u003e, see our Learn section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eThe melt breccia texture records the impact itself. Pronounced flow banding indicates the melt was still mobile during quenching, capturing directional movement within the ejecta. Acicular crystals nucleating on larger entrained mineral grains mark the quench front where rapid cooling arrested crystallization. Angular clast boundaries show the lithic fragments remained solid during incorporation into the melt, while some clast edges display partial melting where contact temperatures exceeded their solidus. Published shock stage is high. Weathering grade is low.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003ePublished geochemistry (A. Greshake, MNB): olivine Fa24.0±0.1 (FeO\/MnO=84±8, n=7); pigeonite Fs25.0±1.5Wo10.0±0.5 (FeO\/MnO=47±3, n=7); zoned Ca-pyroxene Fs23.4±3.2Wo29.3±6.2 (FeO\/MnO=45±5, n=7); calcic plagioclase An95.8±0.8 (n=7). Major phases are pigeonite, zoned augite, and olivine. Minor phases include ilmenite, chromite, and troilite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eVesicles are absent, consistent with formation in the lunar vacuum where volatile loss occurs effectively instantaneously. A subsequent impact eventually launched the consolidated breccia off the Moon, where it orbited the Sun before intersecting Earth's atmosphere.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eAcquisition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen ships with a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. (IMCA #3323) documenting its Meteoritical Bulletin classification and provenance. Secure, fully insured shipping is included. This specimen qualifies for \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/white-glove-service-1\"\u003ewhite-glove service\u003c\/a\u003e, including coordinated delivery and insured transport. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eFor institutional acquisition inquiries, contact \u003ca href=\"mailto:brian@tcmeteorites.com\"\u003ebrian@tcmeteorites.com\u003c\/a\u003e or visit our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/white-glove-service-1\"\u003eWhite Glove Service\u003c\/a\u003e page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Adrar 013 officially classified?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nYes. Adrar 013 is approved in the Meteoritical Bulletin, MB 113 (approved February 14, 2024), as Lunar (melt breccia), purchased in Algeria in 2023. Classification was conducted by A. Greshake at the Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"melt breccia\" mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMelt breccia forms when impact energy partially melts the target rock and incorporates solid fragments into the molten matrix. Rapid cooling preserves both the liquid component, now glass and fine crystals, and the solid component, lithic clasts, in a single rock. Flow structures and quench textures record the melt's movement and cooling history before solidification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the significance of An95.8 plagioclase?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCalcic plagioclase with anorthite content above An90 is characteristic of the lunar highland crust rather than mare basalt. The An95.8±0.8 composition published for Adrar 013 is consistent with anorthosite from the primordial lunar crust, formed when the magma ocean crystallized approximately 4.4 billion years ago. This composition distinguishes highland crustal material from younger volcanic material and helps confirm the source region on the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this rock get from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA hypervelocity impact on the Moon launched material above lunar escape velocity (2.38 km\/s). The ejected rock orbited the Sun until its trajectory intersected Earth's atmosphere, at which point it entered as a meteor and was recovered as a meteorite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is a complete individual at this mass significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMost \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e fragment during atmospheric passage or on ground impact. A complete unmodified individual preserves the original ballistic form and interior fabric without the material loss of cutting or preparation. For lunar material, where total worldwide classified mass across all types is under 750 kg, a three-digit-gram complete individual occupies a structurally scarce category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat documentation is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. (IMCA #3323) documenting classification and provenance, referencing the Meteoritical Bulletin entry for Adrar 013, MB 113.\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (melt breccia) | Purchased, Timokten, Algeria, 2023 | MB 113, approved February 14, 2024 | Classifier: A. Greshake, MNB Berlin | Type specimen: 20.5g, Museum für Naturkunde, Berlin\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n\u003cp\u003eOffered by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional authenticated lunar specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44774812385327,"sku":"ADRAR-013-142.20G-INDIVIDUAL","price":8400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-142-20g-individual-outdoor.heic?v=1779324514"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-14-76g-complete-lunar-meteorite-lunar-melt-breccia-anorthositic-norite-gabbro","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Melt Breccia, 14.76g, Flow-Banded Melt Matrix","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFlow-banded lunar melt with high-relief mineral clasts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 14.76g complete individual preserves flow-banded melt structures that formed during impact-driven melting on the lunar surface. The matrix shows directional banding where molten material flowed and rapidly solidified, freezing the motion of the impact event. High-relief mineral clasts project from the surface, creating strong topographic contrast between the recrystallized melt matrix and intact lithic fragments. The stone retains its natural form with no cuts or polishing, displaying the raw geometry of lunar impact breccias.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 was recovered in Algeria in 2023 and classified as a lunar melt breccia with anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. The classification confirms a deep crustal origin, representing material from the Moon's lower crust where plagioclase-rich anorthosite transitions to noritic and gabbroic assemblages. Complete individuals of this size with preserved melt textures enter the market infrequently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMelt breccia structure and impact textures\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen exhibits recrystallized breccia textures characteristic of high-energy impact melting. The melt matrix surrounds angular to sub-angular lithic clasts, some of which display sharp boundaries indicating incomplete assimilation during the melt phase. Flow banding is visible as linear to curvilinear structures within the matrix, produced when the melt moved under shear before solidification. These features record the thermal and kinetic conditions of the impact event.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMineral clasts stand in high relief due to differential weathering resistance between the melt phase and the included lithic fragments. This topography provides visual depth and makes the brecciation structure immediately apparent. The contrast between dark melt matrix and lighter clast material enhances readability of the breccia texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar crustal composition and formation\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe anorthositic norite\/gabbro classification indicates this meteorite originated from the Moon's deep crust, below the pure anorthositic highlands that dominate the upper crustal column. Noritic and gabbroic compositions form where plagioclase feldspar coexists with orthopyroxene (norite) or clinopyroxene (gabbro), reflecting crystallization conditions deeper in the lunar magma ocean. Impact gardening processes excavated this material and delivered it to the surface where subsequent impacts ejected fragments toward Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar melt breccias form when hypervelocity impacts generate sufficient thermal energy to melt target rock. The melt phase incorporates solid fragments, then cools rapidly in the vacuum environment of the lunar surface. Flow structures preserve the fluid dynamics of the melt before solidification. These rocks provide direct samples of impact processes that shaped the Moon's surface over billions of years. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how impacts distribute and process planetary materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Adrar 013 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar melt breccia with anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. You can verify the classification through the \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does anorthositic norite\/gabbro mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e This describes the mineralogical composition: plagioclase feldspar (anorthosite component) combined with orthopyroxene (norite) or clinopyroxene (gabbro). These minerals crystallize in the deep lunar crust where pressure and temperature conditions differ from the pure anorthositic upper crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 14.76g complete individual and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy are complete lunar individuals rare on the market?\u003c\/strong\u003e Most lunar meteorites are small stones that get cut into slices to maximize the number of specimens available for sale and research. Complete individuals above 10g that retain natural surfaces and internal structure are significantly less common in collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are flow-banded textures?\u003c\/strong\u003e Flow banding forms when molten rock moves under shear stress before solidifying. The flowing melt develops linear or curvilinear structures that freeze in place during rapid cooling. These textures record the fluid dynamics of impact-generated melt on the lunar surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSignificance for lunar meteorite collections\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComplete lunar individuals with preserved melt structures represent the highest tier of lunar meteorite specimens. Most lunar meteorites are fragmental breccias; melt breccias with visible flow textures are less common. This specimen provides both scientific documentation of lunar impact processes and display-quality visual interest through its topographic relief and banding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 14.76g mass places this stone above the typical size threshold where complete individuals are routinely divided. Collectors seeking uncut lunar material with diagnostic textures have limited options at this scale. The flow-banded matrix and high-relief clasts make this piece immediately recognizable as a melt breccia, requiring no magnification to observe key structural features. Browse our full selection of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e for additional specimens from the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44807166853167,"sku":"ADRAR-013-14.76G-INDIVIDUAL","price":665.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-14-76g-individual-display.heic?v=1779326749"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-8-08g-complete-lunar-meteorite-lunar-melt-breccia-anorthositic-norite-gabbro","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Melt Breccia, 8.08g, Flow-Banded Impact Melt","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFlow-banded lunar impact melt preserved in natural form\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 8.08g complete individual from Adrar 013 preserves the chaotic violence of lunar impact melting in its original form. The specimen displays flow-banded melt matrix wrapping around high-relief clasts, clear evidence of molten rock streaming across the lunar surface before rapid solidification. No cuts interrupt the natural geometry. The contrast between the recrystallized melt and lithic inclusions creates a visual record of deep crustal material forcibly mixed during a high-energy collision.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surface shows the characteristic texture of a melt breccia that cooled quickly after ejection. Mineral clasts protrude from the darker matrix, their orientations frozen mid-flow. This is not a simple fragmental breccia; this is rock that was liquid, that flowed, that carried fragments of older lunar crust in its current before hardening in the vacuum of space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and melt characteristics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flow banding in this specimen reflects the movement of impact-generated melt. As molten material spread across the lunar surface or within an impact crater, it carried clasts of anorthositic norite and gabbro, minerals from deep within the Moon's crust. The banding formed as layers of different composition or cooling rate moved past each other, creating the streaked appearance visible across the specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigh-relief clasts interrupt the melt matrix throughout. These fragments represent older crustal rock that survived melting. Their sharp boundaries against the matrix indicate they were solid when incorporated. The recrystallized texture of the surrounding material shows rapid quenching, with melt cooling fast enough to preserve fine-grained minerals rather than allowing large crystals to form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdrar 013 is classified as a lunar melt breccia composed primarily of anorthositic norite and gabbro. These rock types originate from the Moon's lower crust, where plagioclase feldspar mixes with pyroxene in varying proportions. The Moon formed 4.5 billion years ago through the collision of a Mars-sized body with early Earth. As the lunar magma ocean cooled, lighter plagioclase floated to form the anorthositic highlands while denser minerals sank. Later impacts excavated this layered crust and melted it, creating the breccias we find today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe melt texture in this specimen formed during a crater-forming impact that generated enough heat to liquefy crustal rock. The molten material flowed briefly before cooling in the Moon's airless environment. Another, later impact ejected this solidified melt breccia from the lunar surface with enough velocity to escape the Moon's gravity. After drifting through space, it entered Earth's atmosphere and fell in Algeria in 2023. For more on how meteorites reach Earth from other worlds, 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. Adrar 013 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro). You can verify this classification at \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin: Adrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does \"melt breccia\" mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e A melt breccia forms when impact energy melts rock, creating a liquid that flows and incorporates solid fragments (clasts) before cooling. The result is a mix of recrystallized melt matrix and unmelted mineral or rock fragments. The flow banding visible in this specimen is direct evidence of that molten movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the 8.08g complete lunar meteorite individual and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this meteorite from the Moon and not an asteroid?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites have diagnostic mineralogy and oxygen isotope ratios that match Apollo mission samples. The anorthositic composition and specific mineral assemblages in Adrar 013 are consistent only with lunar crustal material, not with any known asteroid type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is anorthositic norite\/gabbro?\u003c\/strong\u003e Anorthosite is rock dominated by plagioclase feldspar. Norite and gabbro are both mixtures of plagioclase and pyroxene, with norite containing orthopyroxene and gabbro containing clinopyroxene. These classifications describe the relative abundances of minerals in the rock. In lunar meteorites, these compositions indicate origin from the Moon's ancient highland crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy collectors pursue complete lunar individuals\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent less than 0.5% of all classified meteorites. Complete individuals, meaning specimens that retain their natural, uncut form, are rarer still. Most lunar material on the market has been sliced to maximize the number of specimens available for sale. An 8.08g individual with preserved flow textures and no human intervention offers both scientific integrity and visual impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen's size places it well above the typical lunar fragment. The flow banding and clast distribution remain intact across the entire piece, providing context that cut sections cannot preserve. For collectors building a \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection, complete individuals anchor the display with specimens that show exactly how the material existed in space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe anorthositic norite\/gabbro classification links this specimen to the Moon's deep crust, not surface regolith, not mare basalt, but the ancient layered interior exposed by impact excavation. Combined with the melt breccia texture, this specimen documents both the Moon's original differentiation and its ongoing bombardment history. It is a tangible record of planetary-scale processes, held in a form that requires no cutting to appreciate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44814297759791,"sku":"ADRAR-013-8.08G-INDIVIDUAL","price":365.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-8-08g-individual-light-pad.heic?v=1779327115"},{"product_id":"adrar-013-10-53g-complete-lunar-meteorite-lunar-melt-breccia-anorthositic-norite-gabbro","title":"Adrar 013 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Melt Breccia, 10.53g, Flow-Banded Texture","description":"\u003ch2\u003eFlow-banded lunar melt preserved in natural form\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 10.53-gram complete individual from Adrar 013 shows the flow-banded melt texture characteristic of high-energy impact processes on the lunar surface. The specimen remains uncut and unshaped, preserving its natural exterior and internal melt structure. Dark melt matrix wraps around high-relief mineral clasts, creating strong visual contrast between the recrystallized breccia components and the frozen impact melt. The flow banding records the moment molten material cooled rapidly after a violent impact event, capturing directional movement in the melt before solidification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnorthositic norite and gabbro components define the mineralogy of this lunar melt breccia. The classification reflects deep lunar crustal source materials melted and mixed during impact. This specimen presents the structural evidence of that process in tangible form, with no polishing required to observe the melt relationships and clast boundaries that define lunar impact breccias.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMelt breccia structure and clast relationships\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen displays a heterogeneous texture where angular to subangular lithic clasts sit within a fine-grained melt matrix. Flow banding becomes visible where the matrix shows directional alignment, indicating movement during the molten phase. High-relief mineral clasts project slightly from the surface, a result of differential weathering between the harder crystalline inclusions and the softer matrix material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecrystallization textures throughout the matrix indicate rapid cooling from high temperatures. The anorthositic norite and gabbro clast population reflects sampling of lunar highland crust during the impact event. These clasts retain their original mineralogy while the matrix records the melting and quenching sequence. The boundary between clasts and matrix remains sharp in most areas, showing incomplete homogenization during the melt phase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eLunar impact melt formation and Moon rock geology\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar melt breccias form during major impact events that generate sufficient energy to melt crustal rock. The Moon lacks atmospheric protection, allowing impactors to strike at full cosmic velocity and produce temperatures exceeding 1,200°C. Molten material mixes with solid clasts, then cools rapidly in the vacuum environment. This process creates the distinctive melt-clast textures visible in Adrar 013.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe anorthositic norite and gabbro composition indicates deep highland crust as the source region. Anorthosite dominates the lunar highlands, formed during the Moon's early differentiation when plagioclase feldspar crystals floated in a global magma ocean. Later intrusions and impacts added norite and gabbro components. When a large impact excavates this layered crust, it samples multiple rock types and creates the mixed lithology seen in this specimen. Lunar meteorites reach Earth after separate impact events eject material from the Moon's surface at escape velocity, eventually intersecting Earth's orbit. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e provides background on how these rare specimens travel from planetary surfaces to terrestrial collections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Adrar 013 received official classification as a lunar melt breccia with anorthositic norite\/gabbro composition. The Meteoritical Bulletin maintains the classification record and find documentation. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. confirming its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does melt breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e A melt breccia contains solid rock fragments (clasts) suspended in a matrix of once-molten material that cooled and solidified. In lunar melt breccias, impact energy melts crustal rock while also breaking apart surrounding material. The molten component flows around solid clasts before cooling rapidly, creating the mixed texture visible in this specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e This 10.53g complete lunar individual ships with a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included unless separately confirmed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do scientists know this came from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar meteorites show diagnostic mineral compositions, oxygen isotope ratios, and trace element patterns that match Apollo samples and differ from all terrestrial rocks and other meteorite types. The combination of anorthositic composition, specific feldspar chemistry, and lack of water-altered minerals confirms lunar origin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this specimen uncut?\u003c\/strong\u003e Complete individuals preserve the natural exterior and three-dimensional structure of the meteorite as it traveled through space and survived atmospheric entry. Collectors value uncut specimens for their natural form and the scientific information retained in the intact structure. This piece shows melt textures and clast relationships without modification.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAcquiring lunar material for private collections\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites represent the only legal pathway for private individuals to own Moon rocks. Apollo samples remain U.S. government property, and Luna mission material belongs to Russia. Meteorites from the Moon that fall naturally on Earth can be collected, classified, and sold. This creates rare opportunities to acquire genuine lunar material with full documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10.53-gram mass of this Adrar 013 individual places it in a size range suitable for serious planetary specimen collections. The complete natural form preserves the exterior surface and internal structure without cuts or modification. Flow-banded melt textures remain visible across the specimen, offering both scientific interest and visual appeal. Lunar melt breccias with preserved flow structures and clear clast-matrix relationships demonstrate the impact processes that have shaped the Moon's surface for billions of years. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e in our collection represent verified specimens with full classification documentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=81328\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eAdrar 013\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar melt breccia (anorthositic norite\/gabbro) | Find, Algeria, 2023\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44814355660847,"sku":"ADRAR-013-10.53G-INDIVIDUAL","price":475.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/adrar-013-lunar-meteorite-10-53g-individual-textured-surface.heic?v=1779327479"},{"product_id":"nwa-17706-lunar-meteorite-complete-individual-45-40-g-one-of-the-rarest-lunars-in-existence","title":"NWA 17706 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Troctolitic Anorthosite Melt Breccia, 45.40g, Complete Stone from Earth's Moon","description":"\u003ch2\u003eComplete lunar specimen preserving Moon's early crustal history\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 45.40g complete individual of NWA 17706 preserves a complex assemblage of lunar highland materials fused by impact processes on the Moon's surface. The specimen displays the characteristic gray-white coloration of lunar anorthosites mixed with darker melt matrix, revealing the violent collisions that shaped the Moon's crust over billions of years. Recovered from Algeria in 2024 and classified later that year, this stone represents one of the rarest categories of meteorites available to collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe troctolitic anorthosite composition indicates this material originated from the Moon's primordial crust, formed when the lunar magma ocean crystallized approximately 4.4 billion years ago. The melt breccia texture documents subsequent meteoroid bombardment that melted and mixed these ancient crustal rocks. This specimen retains its complete natural form as found, with no cutting or modification, preserving the full context of its ejection from the lunar surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eBrecciated structure and lunar composition\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe specimen exhibits a heterogeneous texture characteristic of lunar regolith breccias, with lighter anorthositic clasts embedded in a darker impact-generated melt matrix. Troctolitic anorthosites contain primarily plagioclase feldspar with olivine, distinguishing them from pure anorthosites that dominate the lunar highlands. These mineral phases crystallized directly from the Moon's initial magma ocean, making them among the oldest rocks in the Solar System.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe melt breccia component formed when micrometeorite impacts partially melted surface materials, welding together fragments of the pre-existing bedrock. This process created the matrix that binds the individual clasts visible throughout the specimen. The fusion occurred on the Moon's surface before a larger impact ejected this material into space, eventually sending it on a trajectory toward Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide direct samples of the Moon's surface without the logistical constraints of space missions. Unlike Apollo samples collected from six equatorial sites, lunar meteorites arrive from random impact locations across the Moon's entire surface. Troctolitic anorthosites represent the Moon's primordial crust, formed when less dense plagioclase floated to the top of the global magma ocean while denser minerals sank to form the mantle. This differentiation process, completed within the first 100 million years of lunar history, created the bright highlands visible from Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe melt breccia classification indicates this specimen experienced significant shock and heating from meteoroid bombardment. These impacts delivered enough energy to partially melt the surrounding rock, creating the matrix that welds together older crustal fragments. Study of lunar breccias helps reconstruct the bombardment history that cratered the Moon's surface and shaped its geological evolution. Collectors seeking to understand planetary formation processes will find detailed information at \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 Yes. NWA 17706 received official classification as a lunar troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia and appears in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017706\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17706\u003c\/a\u003e. The specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does troctolitic anorthosite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Troctolitic anorthosite is a rock type dominated by plagioclase feldspar (anorthosite) with significant olivine content (the troctolitic component). This composition formed when the Moon's magma ocean crystallized, with these minerals floating to form the primordial crust approximately 4.4 billion years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e You receive the complete 45.40g individual meteorite and certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this rock get from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e A large meteoroid impact on the Moon excavated material from depth and ejected it into space at velocities exceeding lunar escape velocity (2.4 km\/s). The ejected fragments orbited the Sun until gravitational interactions sent them on Earth-crossing trajectories, resulting in atmospheric entry and recovery in Algeria.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is this called a complete individual?\u003c\/strong\u003e This specimen represents an entire fragment as it was found, with no cutting or modification. Complete individuals preserve the full context of their journey through space and atmospheric entry, making them particularly valued by collectors who want specimens in their natural state.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites comprise less than 0.5% of all classified meteorites, making them among the rarest specimens available. This complete individual offers collectors an unmodified piece of the Moon at a size substantial enough to display the characteristic brecciated texture. The 45.40g mass places it well above the typical fragment size, providing excellent display presence while documenting the Moon's crustal composition and impact history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe troctolitic anorthosite classification specifically represents the Moon's oldest crustal materials, formed during the magma ocean stage before the late heavy bombardment cratered the surface. Collectors building comprehensive lunar collections or focusing on planetary differentiation processes will find this specimen particularly relevant. Additional lunar specimens and related materials can be explored at \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA%2017706\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eNWA 17706\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite, melt breccia) | Find, Algeria, 2024\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44864604635183,"sku":"NWA-17706-45.40G-INDIVIDUAL","price":3400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/nwa-17706-lunar-meteorite-45-40g-complete-individual-display-stand.heic?v=1769835689"},{"product_id":"nwa-18211-lunar-meteorite-2-58kg-museum-grade-complete-individual","title":"NWA 18211 Lunar Meteorite, Troctolitic Anorthosite Melt Breccia, 2,576.00g, Complete Main Mass","description":"\u003cp\u003eNWA 18211 is one of only five meteorites in the world officially classified as a lunar troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia. That designation appears exactly five times in the entire Meteoritical Bulletin database. This is the complete main mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe specimen\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 2,576g stone is the complete main mass of NWA 18211, recovered in Northwest Africa and purchased in Morocco in 2025, officially classified by the Meteoritical Society on December 21, 2025 (MB 114). No other piece of this meteorite exists in private hands. The type specimen, 20.14g, resides at the Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueología in Tenerife, Spain. The main mass is held by Brian McDonald of Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt kilogram scale, a complete lunar meteorite individual of this classification has no meaningful comparison on the open market. The overwhelming majority of lunar meteorites available to collectors are measured in single or double-digit grams. A 2.576kg intact individual, in a classification represented by five approved specimens globally, occupies a category of its own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eClassification and scientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTroctolitic anorthosites represent some of the oldest material recoverable from the Moon. They formed during the earliest stage of lunar differentiation, when the global magma ocean was cooling and anorthitic plagioclase crystallized and floated to form the primordial highland crust. The olivine component places this lithology within the troctolitic suite, associated with the deep ancient highlands. The melt breccia texture records a subsequent chapter: one or more hypervelocity impacts energetic enough to partially melt the target rock and preserve fragments of the original troctolitic anorthosite within a shock-generated matrix. This stone encodes both the Moon's primordial crust and the violent processes that shaped it over billions of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClassification was performed by J. Garcia at ADARA, Canary Islands. Petrographic analysis confirmed plagioclase averaging An97.9, reflecting the extreme anorthite enrichment characteristic of the lunar highland crust. FeO\/MnO ratios in olivine and pyroxene fall within the lunar range, consistent with Apollo highland samples and unambiguously distinct from terrestrial or Martian material. The shock stage is recorded as high. Weathering grade is moderate, consistent with a Northwest African find of recent recovery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAcquisition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is offered via private sale. Purchase may be completed by bank wire transfer following invoice and confirmation of terms. A formal invoice and purchase agreement will be issued prior to payment. Escrow is available for qualified buyers upon request. Delivery is arranged through insured white-glove shipping with coordinated handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSerious acquisition inquiries only. Contact: \u003ca href=\"mailto:brian@tcmeteorites.com\"\u003ebrian@tcmeteorites.com\u003c\/a\u003e or visit our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/white-glove-service-1\"\u003eWhite Glove Service\u003c\/a\u003e page for institutional and private treaty inquiries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs NWA 18211 officially classified?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. NWA 18211 carries official status in the Meteoritical Bulletin, published in MB 114 and approved December 21, 2025. Classification as Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia) was performed by J. Garcia at ADARA, with the type specimen deposited at the Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueología in Tenerife, Spain. The full record is available at the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=86281\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eofficial Meteoritical Bulletin entry for NWA 18211\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e Troctolitic anorthosite describes one of the oldest rock types recoverable from the Moon, composed primarily of anorthitic plagioclase with olivine, formed during the earliest cooling of the lunar magma ocean. Melt breccia indicates the rock was subsequently processed by one or more large impacts that partially melted the original material and preserved fragments within a shock-generated matrix. The classification captures both the ancient origin and the violent impact history recorded in this stone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is lunar origin confirmed?\u003c\/strong\u003e Lunar origin is established through geochemical fingerprinting. The FeO\/MnO ratios in olivine and pyroxene match the lunar value range established by Apollo samples. Plagioclase averaging An97.9 is characteristic of the lunar highland crust and essentially absent in terrestrial or Martian rocks. These indicators, combined with the petrographic texture and the absence of hydrous alteration, confirm this material originated on the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is a complete individual significant?\u003c\/strong\u003e Most meteorites, and nearly all lunars, fragment during atmospheric passage or on impact with the ground. A complete intact individual of this mass is uncommon in any classification. Combined with the extreme rarity of the troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia designation, this specimen is unlikely to be replicated on the open market at any price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat documentation is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e The sale includes full provenance documentation, the Meteoritical Bulletin citation (MB 114), and a formal invoice referencing the MetBull entry. Classification imagery from ADARA is available upon request. This specimen is guaranteed authentic by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=86281\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 18211\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia) | Find, Northwest Africa, 2025 | MB 114, approved December 21, 2025 | Classifier: J. Garcia, ADARA | Type specimen: 20.14g, MUNA, Tenerife\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e for additional authenticated lunar specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44903788380207,"sku":"NWA-18211-2580G-INDIVIDUAL","price":1290000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/nwa-18211-lunar-meteorite-2576g-display-stand-side-03.heic?v=1780191501"},{"product_id":"laayoune-002-lunar-meteorite-31-95g-complete-individual-moon-rock","title":"Laayoune 002 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Feldspathic Breccia, 31.95g, Complete Moon Rock","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA complete individual from the lunar highlands\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 31.95g Laayoune 002 specimen preserves the full natural form of a lunar meteorite that traveled from the Moon to Earth. The stone displays the pale coloration characteristic of feldspathic breccias, material excavated from the Moon's ancient highland crust. The surface shows subtle texture variations where anorthositic clasts embedded in a fine-grained matrix create a mosaic pattern distinct to this lunar breccia type. This complete individual retains its natural weathered surface from its time in the Western Sahara, where it was recovered in 2022.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen's mass places it among the more substantial complete individuals available from this classified lunar fall. Its intact form allows observation of the three-dimensional brecciation structure that formed during impact events on the Moon's surface billions of years ago. The stone sits comfortably in hand, displaying the pale gray tones that distinguish highland material from the darker basaltic lunar samples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeldspathic breccia structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLaayoune 002 classifies as a feldspathic breccia, meaning it consists predominantly of plagioclase feldspar fragments cemented together by impact processes. Under magnification, the specimen reveals angular clasts of anorthosite embedded in a fine-grained matrix. These clasts represent fragments of the Moon's primordial crust, which formed when plagioclase crystals floated to the surface of the lunar magma ocean more than 4.4 billion years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe brecciation texture resulted from meteoroid impacts on the Moon's surface that shattered and mixed crustal material. Subsequent impact events welded these fragments together without melting them completely, preserving the original mineralogy. The pale color reflects the high feldspar content, typically 90% or more plagioclase in feldspathic breccias. This composition contrasts sharply with the iron-rich basalts that form the dark lunar maria.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias like Laayoune 002 originate from the Moon's ancient highlands, the light-colored terrain visible from Earth that covers approximately 83% of the lunar surface. These regions preserve the Moon's oldest crustal material, dating back to the magma ocean period shortly after the Moon's formation 4.5 billion years ago. The highlands experienced intense bombardment during the Late Heavy Bombardment period, roughly 4.1 to 3.8 billion years ago, which created the brecciated texture observed in this specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnalysis of lunar feldspathic breccias provides data on highland composition that complements but differs from the Apollo and Luna mission samples, which primarily collected mare basalts. The anorthositic composition confirms theoretical models of lunar differentiation and magma ocean crystallization. Each lunar meteorite that reaches Earth expands our sampling of the Moon's surface beyond the limited areas accessed by spacecraft missions. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/learn-about-meteorites\"\u003eLearn About Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e to understand how scientists use these specimens to reconstruct planetary formation processes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this meteorite authenticated?\u003c\/strong\u003e Laayoune 002 received official classification as a lunar feldspathic breccia and appears in the Meteoritical Bulletin Database. Meteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=77253\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLaayoune 002\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar (feldspathic breccia) | Find, Western Sahara, 2022. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and chain of custody.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat makes this a complete individual?\u003c\/strong\u003e A complete individual meteorite retains its full original form as it was recovered, without cutting or breaking. This 31.95g stone preserves its natural surface and three-dimensional structure from its fall to Earth, allowing observation of the specimen as a discrete object rather than a fragment of a larger mass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow did this rock travel from the Moon to Earth?\u003c\/strong\u003e A meteoroid impact on the Moon's surface ejected this material at velocities exceeding the Moon's escape velocity of 2.4 km\/s. The fragment orbited the Sun until gravitational interactions with Earth brought it into our atmosphere, where it survived entry and landed in the Western Sahara. This process typically requires impact events energetic enough to excavate craters several kilometers in diameter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included with this specimen?\u003c\/strong\u003e The specimen weighs 31.95g and includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance. No display stand is included unless specifically noted in the product details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow do scientists confirm lunar origin?\u003c\/strong\u003e Laboratory analysis measures oxygen isotope ratios, which match lunar samples returned by Apollo missions exactly. Feldspathic composition with high plagioclase content, specific mineral chemistry, and the presence of solar wind implanted noble gases further confirm lunar origin. These signatures distinguish lunar meteorites from terrestrial rocks and other meteorite types definitively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites constitute less than one percent of all classified meteorite falls, making them among the scarcest specimen types available to private collectors. Laayoune 002 specifically offers access to highland crustal material, the dominant lunar terrain type that remains undersampled compared to mare regions. Complete individuals command particular interest because they preserve natural form and allow three-dimensional study of brecciation patterns without the constraints of cut faces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 31.95g mass represents a substantial complete stone suitable for both display and study. The specimen's size allows clear observation of clast distribution while remaining accessible to collectors building comprehensive \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e holdings. For institutions and advanced collectors, feldspathic breccias provide material for comparative analysis with Apollo highlands samples and contribute data on lunar crustal composition. This specimen offers direct physical connection to the Moon's ancient history at a scale that permits detailed examination of the processes that shaped the lunar surface during the solar system's first billion years.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44939587944495,"sku":"LAAYOUNE-002-31.95G-INDIVIDUAL","price":1430.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/Laayoune-002-lunar-meteorite-31-95g-complete-individual-main.heic?v=1780190542"},{"product_id":"nwa-17706-lunar-meteorite-slice-troctolitic-anorthosite-melt-breccia-1-91g","title":"NWA 17706 Lunar Meteorite Slice, Troctolitic Anorthosite Melt Breccia, 1.91g, Full Slice from Earth's Moon","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA full slice of the same highland lunar lithology as NWA 18211\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17706 is classified as Lunar in Meteoritical Bulletin 114 (2025). Its published petrography identifies the same highland lithology as NWA 18211, which carries the formal subtype designation Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite, melt breccia). This is a 1.91g full slice from the NWA 17706 mass, cut to expose the complete interior cross-section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThin section analysis from the Meteoritical Bulletin describes a melt breccia of mineral debris and sparse lithic troctolitic clasts with grain sizes up to 90 micrometers and subophytic texture, embedded in a plagioclase-rich, partially devitrified impact melt matrix. The mineral assemblage is anorthitic plagioclase with fine-grained ferroan olivine and subordinate low-Ca pyroxene. Accessory chromite, ilmenite, and sulfides are distributed interstitially throughout the matrix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePublished geochemistry from MB 114: olivine Fa34.6±1.4 (FeO\/MnO=92±6); pigeonite Fs30.3±1.2Wo7.2±3.0 (FeO\/MnO=58±3); plagioclase An98.2±0.6. The highly anorthitic plagioclase is consistent with the lunar highlands feldspathic crust. The stone is gray, desert varnished, and lacks fusion crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDiscovery and provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17706 was found in December 2024 in Algeria. Eight stones with a combined mass of 327.9g were purchased in Tindouf from Taguati Abdelhamid. The type specimen is held at MUNA (Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueologia, Tenerife). Two thin sections are at ADARA. The remaining mass is with Brian McDonald of Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. Classification was approved September 14, 2025, published in Meteoritical Bulletin 114 (2025).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17706 is classified as Lunar in Meteoritical Bulletin 114 (2025). Its petrography identifies a troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia, the same highland lithology as NWA 18211. NWA 18211 carries the formal subtype designation Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite, melt breccia) in the Meteoritical Bulletin, one of only five meteorites in the database with that exact designation. NWA 17706 shares that lithology and likely origin. The difference in classification specificity reflects nomenclature committee practice, not a difference in the material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLunar meteorites represent a small fraction of all classified meteorites in the Meteoritical Bulletin, with fewer than 1,000 approved entries out of tens of thousands of classified stones.. Highland breccias of this specific lithology are a fraction of that already small population. NWA 17706 is classified in the same bulletin issue as NWA 18211 which is a 1 of 5 classification, recovered from the same general region, and describes the same rock type. Both stones are held by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs NWA 17706 officially classified?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. It is an officially classified lunar meteorite accepted by the Meteoritical Society and published in Meteoritical Bulletin 114 (2025), approved September 14, 2025. IMCA #3323.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the connection between NWA 17706 and NWA 18211?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both share the same highland lithology, troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia, and are classified in MB 114. NWA 18211 carries the formal subtype designation in the Meteoritical Bulletin database; NWA 17706 is classified as Lunar with the same petrography described in its writeup. They share lithology, likely origin, and are both held by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. NWA 18211 is the 2.576kg complete main mass; NWA 17706 offers slices from a separate stone of the same material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy does this stone lack fusion crust?\u003c\/strong\u003e Many NWA meteorites recovered in the Sahara have experienced surface weathering or ablation sufficient to remove the original fusion crust. The interior mineralogy and published geochemistry are unaffected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is a full slice?\u003c\/strong\u003e A full slice is a cut through the complete width of the specimen, exposing the interior matrix and clast structure from edge to edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFive meteorites in the Meteoritical Bulletin carry the formal designation Lunar (troctolitic anorthosite, melt breccia). NWA 17706 shares that lithology. A full slice at this weight is a direct sample of a highland lunar rock type documented in peer-reviewed literature, with a named type specimen repository, published geochemistry, and a MetBull entry linking it to one of the largest and rarest lunar meteorite masses in private hands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003eLunar Meteorites\u003c\/a\u003e collection, including \u003ca href=\"\/products\/nwa-18211-lunar-meteorite-2-58kg-museum-grade-complete-individual\"\u003eNWA 18211, the complete main mass\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry: \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=85492\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eNWA 17706\u003c\/a\u003e | Classification: Lunar | Find, Algeria, 2024 | TKW 327.9g | MB 114 (2025) | IMCA #3323\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45389549568047,"sku":"NWA-17706-1.91G-SLICE","price":140.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/nwa-17706-lunar-1.91g-white-background.jpg?v=1779853730"},{"product_id":"nwa-17706-lunar-meteorite-individual-troctolitic-anorthosite-melt-breccia-53-80g-complete-stone-from-earths-moon","title":"NWA 17706 Lunar Meteorite Individual, Troctolitic Anorthosite Melt Breccia, 53.80g, Complete Stone from Earth's Moon","description":"\u003ch2\u003eNWA 17706, a 53.80 gram complete lunar individual\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 53.80 gram complete individual of NWA 17706 is a genuine piece of the Moon, recovered as a single whole stone and offered from the same documented lot of NWA 17706 lunar material in our classified inventory. It is a larger individual than the piece we offered previously, and the surface on this example stands out, a dark and glossy exterior carrying a pronounced melt texture and well defined regmaglypts across the main face. Recovered in Algeria in 2024 and classified that same year, the stone belongs to one of the most limited categories of meteorites a collector can hold, material from the surface of the Moon itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17706 is officially classified as lunar, with a petrographic description of troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia. That composition points to the Moon's primordial crust, rock that formed when the lunar magma ocean crystallized roughly 4.4 billion years ago and was later reworked by impact. The specimen retains its complete natural form as found, with no cutting, no coating, and no modification, preserving the full context of its ejection from the lunar surface and its arrival on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSurface, melt texture, and regmaglypts\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exterior is dark and glossy, wrapped in a melt texture that flows across much of the stone. Well defined regmaglypts, the rounded thumbprint depressions prized on shaped individuals, sit across the main face and give the piece strong relief and depth under light. Small bright inclusions appear within the darker surface in places, points of contrast against the melt textured skin. Turning the stone reveals a paler face with a more granular texture, a natural counterpoint to the glossy upper surfaces. This is one of the better surfaced lunar individuals we have handled, and it is offered exactly as found, a natural individual with no coating or stabilization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternally, the troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia classification records a violent surface history. Troctolitic anorthosite is built primarily from plagioclase feldspar with olivine, mineral phases that crystallized from the Moon's early magma ocean. A melt breccia is rock that was partially melted and welded back together by meteoroid bombardment, binding older crustal fragments into a single mass. The stone carries that history in its makeup, a sample of the lunar highlands assembled and shaped before it ever left the Moon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDiscovery and provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNWA 17706 was recovered in Algeria in 2024 and entered the scientific record through the Meteoritical Bulletin as a lunar meteorite that same year. This individual is held in our internal classified inventory and is offered with Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. provenance and a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification. The full classification details are listed at the end of this description.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eScientific context, a piece of the Moon\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites provide direct samples of the Moon without the logistical constraints of a crewed mission. Where the Apollo program collected from six sites near the lunar equator, lunar meteorites arrive from random impact locations across the Moon's entire surface, sampling terrain no mission has visited. Troctolitic anorthosites in particular represent the Moon's primordial crust, formed when lighter plagioclase floated to the top of the global magma ocean while denser minerals sank to build the mantle. That differentiation, completed within the first hundred million years of lunar history, created the bright highlands still visible from Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe melt breccia classification records the bombardment that followed. Repeated impacts delivered enough energy to partially melt surface rock, welding older crustal fragments into new masses like this one. Lunar meteorites account for well under one percent of all classified meteorites, which places NWA 17706 among the most limited material available to collectors. Further background is available in our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.tcmeteorites.com\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorites collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this really from the Moon?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. NWA 17706 is officially classified as a lunar troctolitic anorthosite melt breccia and is recorded in the Meteoritical Bulletin. The specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does this piece compare to the one you offered before?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt comes from the same documented lot of NWA 17706 and is a larger individual at 53.80 grams. The surface on this example is also more striking, with a glossy melt texture and well defined regmaglypts across the main face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it have fusion crust?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. It is offered as a natural individual with a melt textured surface and regmaglypts rather than a fresh fusion crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does troctolitic anorthosite mean?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is a rock dominated by plagioclase feldspar with a significant olivine content. These minerals crystallized from the Moon's magma ocean roughly 4.4 billion years ago to form the primordial lunar crust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is included?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYou receive the complete 53.80 gram individual and a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHas the stone been coated or treated?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo. It is offered in natural condition, with no epoxy or stabilizing coating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCollector significance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites make up less than one half of one percent of all classified meteorites, and a complete individual carries the appeal of an entire stone rather than a cut fragment. This 53.80 gram piece brings together lunar origin, a complete individual form, a glossy melt textured surface, and well defined regmaglypts in a single specimen, with display presence well above the typical small fragment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe troctolitic anorthosite classification ties this stone to the Moon's oldest crust, formed during the magma ocean stage before later bombardment cratered the surface. For a collector building a lunar section or focused on planetary formation, it is a substantial and well documented example. The classification can be reviewed in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.php?sea=NWA+17706\u0026amp;sfor=names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMeteoritical Bulletin entry for NWA 17706\u003c\/a\u003e. Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA #3323.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45411585753135,"sku":"NWA17706-53.8G-INDIVIDUAL","price":4750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/nwa-17706-lunar-53.8g-individual-white-background.jpg?v=1780498664"},{"product_id":"laayoune-002-lunar-feldspathic-breccia-full-slice-4-80g","title":"Laayoune 002 Lunar Feldspathic Breccia Full Slice 4.80g","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA full slice of the lunar highlands\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a complete slice of Laâyoune 002, a \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lunar-meteorites\"\u003elunar meteorite\u003c\/a\u003e classified as a feldspathic breccia. The piece weighs 4.80 grams and carries a mirror polish on one face, which brings the brecciated interior into sharp relief and reflects cleanly when turned in the light. Material like this began as part of the Moon's ancient crust before an impact launched it off the lunar surface and sent it to Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStructure and features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe cut face shows the texture of a breccia: pale clasts ranging from white to light gray set against darker gray lithic fragments, all bound in a finer grained matrix. A network of thin pale veins threads across the surface, with scattered tan and orange iron staining picked up during the meteorite's time in the desert. The polish on one side holds a reflective finish that defines the clast boundaries, while the slice itself is thin in profile, as the edge view shows. At 4.80 grams it sits comfortably on a small stand or in the hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDiscovery and provenance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLaâyoune 002 was found in January 2022 near Laayoune, in the Saguia el Hamra region of Western Sahara, and was purchased from the finder by Aziz Habibi. The recovered material lacks fusion crust and shows a gray color with whitish clasts visible throughout. The meteorite was classified by A. Irving and P. Carpenter and published in the Meteoritical Bulletin, MB 111 (2023). The type specimen, a 20.7 gram polished endcut, is held in an institutional collection, with the main mass retained by A. Habibi.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eScientific context\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeldspathic breccias come from the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-a-lunar-meteorite\"\u003elunar highlands\u003c\/a\u003e, the light colored anorthositic crust that covers most of the Moon's far side and much of its surface. The Meteoritical Bulletin entry describes Laâyoune 002 as a breccia composed of mineral clasts of anorthite, olivine, orthopyroxene, pigeonite and augite, with accessory ilmenite and chromite and minor secondary barite. The plagioclase is highly calcic, with anorthite content measured at An96.1 to An97.7, which is the composition expected of feldspar from the lunar highland crust. Lunar feldspathic breccias of this kind are compositional analogs to the highland material returned by the Apollo missions, which is part of how a lunar origin is established.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow is a meteorite confirmed to be lunar?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLunar meteorites are identified through mineral chemistry, petrography and isotopic study, then reviewed and published by the \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/what-is-the-meteoritical-society\"\u003eMeteoritical Society\u003c\/a\u003e. Laâyoune 002 was classified by A. Irving and P. Carpenter and entered into the Meteoritical Bulletin database as a lunar feldspathic breccia. The highly calcic anorthite and the overall feldspathic composition match material from the lunar highlands.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy is the name spelled with a circumflex?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe official Meteoritical Bulletin name is Laâyoune 002, with a circumflex over the first a. Plain spellings such as Laayoune 002 refer to the same officially named meteorite.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this the same as other Laâyoune numbered stones?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWestern Sahara is a dense collection area where finds are given sequential numbers. Laâyoune 002 is its own officially named and separately classified meteorite.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow should the slice be stored and handled?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHandle with clean gloves and keep it in a dry environment. As a desert find it is best kept away from humidity to protect the cut surfaces over the long term.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy this matters to a collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLunar meteorites account for a small portion of all classified meteorites, and feldspathic breccias represent the Moon's primary crust rather than its volcanic plains. A complete slice with a polished display face lets the brecciated texture be read directly, from individual clasts to the vein network running through the matrix. This specimen is offered by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co., IMCA Member #3323.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eClassification and provenance for this specimen follow the official Meteoritical Bulletin entry for Laâyoune 002, viewable at \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=77253\" data-sanitized-target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.lpi.usra.edu\/meteor\/metbull.cfm?code=77253\"\u003ethe Meteoritical Bulletin Database\u003c\/a\u003e. Unless specifically stated in titles and descriptions, all meteorites sold by Treasure Coast Meteorite Co. are scientifically classified specimens with Meteoritical Bulletin citations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45436653830191,"sku":"LAAYOUNE002-4.80G-FS","price":215.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/files\/laayoune-002-lunar-feldspathic-breccia-4.80g-full-slice-on-stand-scale-cube.jpg?v=1780864678"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0726\/9724\/9839\/collections\/lunar-meteorites-collection.png?v=1766196174","url":"https:\/\/www.tcmeteorites.com\/collections\/lunar-meteorites.oembed?page=2","provider":"Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}