Murchison CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite Meteorite Slice, 2.18g, Polished, Organic-Rich Matrix

Polished slice from the most scientifically significant carbonaceous chondrite

This 2.18g polished slice of Murchison reveals the dark, fine-grained matrix characteristic of CM2 carbonaceous chondrites. The polish brings out subtle variations in texture where embedded chondrules meet the organic-rich groundmass. Murchison fell in Victoria, Australia on September 28, 1969, fragmenting over the town and scattering over 100 kilograms of material that scientists continue to study five decades later.

The slice shows the heterogeneous interior structure typical of CM chondrites: spherical chondrules suspended in a carbon-bearing matrix that formed before Earth existed. This specimen displays visible chondrules against the darker matrix, offering a direct view of materials that aggregated in the outer solar nebula 4.6 billion years ago.

Matrix composition and chondrule structure

CM2 chondrites contain a matrix dominated by phyllosilicates, hydrated minerals that formed when liquid water altered the original rock in the parent asteroid. This aqueous alteration occurred early in solar system history, making Murchison a record of water-rock interactions that predate Earth's formation. The matrix comprises approximately 70% of the meteorite's volume, with embedded chondrules ranging from submillimeter to several millimeters in diameter.

The chondrules visible in this slice formed as molten droplets in the solar nebula, cooling rapidly to preserve igneous textures. Their presence alongside hydrated minerals demonstrates that Murchison's parent body experienced both high-temperature nebular processes and later aqueous alteration. The polish enhances the contrast between the darker matrix and lighter chondrule materials.

Scientific context

Murchison originated in the outer asteroid belt, where temperatures remained low enough for volatile compounds to condense and persist. The CM2 classification indicates moderate aqueous alteration, less altered than CM1 meteorites but more altered than CM3. This intermediate state preserves both presolar grains and organic molecules while showing clear evidence of water activity.

Scientists have identified over 70 amino acids in Murchison, most of which do not occur in terrestrial biology. The meteorite also contains presolar silicon carbide and diamond grains that formed in other stellar systems before our sun existed. These discoveries established carbonaceous chondrites as carriers of organic molecules to early Earth. Learn About Meteorites explores how different meteorite types formed and what they reveal about solar system history.

Frequently asked questions

Is this meteorite authenticated? Murchison is classified as CM2 in the Meteoritical Bulletin. Search the database: Murchison. This specimen includes a certificate of authenticity from Treasure Coast Meteorite Co.

What does CM2 classification mean? CM designates the Mighei chemical group of carbonaceous chondrites, characterized by abundant phyllosilicates and organic matter. The number 2 indicates the petrologic type, representing moderate aqueous alteration. CM2 chondrites experienced enough water activity to alter primary minerals but retained distinct chondrules and presolar components.

What is included with this specimen? You receive the 2.18g polished Murchison slice and a certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included with this specimen.

Why is Murchison considered scientifically important? Murchison is the most extensively studied carbonaceous chondrite because of its large recovered mass, fresh condition at time of fall, and exceptional preservation of organic compounds. It has been the subject of thousands of research papers across disciplines from cosmochemistry to astrobiology, contributing fundamental data about solar system formation and the delivery of organic molecules to planetary surfaces.

How do I care for a carbonaceous chondrite? Store Murchison in a dry environment. The meteorite contains hygroscopic minerals that can absorb atmospheric moisture. Avoid handling the specimen directly; oils from skin can affect the surface. Keep the specimen in its protective container when not displayed.

Acquisition opportunity for astrobiology research material

Murchison occupies a singular position in meteorite collections because its scientific importance extends beyond meteoritics into astrobiology, organic geochemistry, and stellar evolution. The 1969 fall occurred at an ideal time, researchers could apply new analytical techniques to fresh material, establishing Murchison as the reference standard for carbonaceous chondrite studies. This 2.18g slice provides access to the same material that laboratories worldwide use for cutting-edge research.

The specimen's polished surface allows direct observation of features that define CM2 chondrites: the dark matrix resulting from fine-grained phyllosilicates, embedded chondrules preserving igneous textures, and the overall texture that formed through parent body processes. For collectors building representative suites of meteorite types, Murchison is the essential carbonaceous chondrite. Carbonaceous Chondrites includes other specimens from this scientifically rich class of meteorites.

Meteoritical Bulletin entry: Murchison | Classification: CM2 | Fall, Australia, 1969