NWA 17364 LL3.10 Ordinary Chondrite Meteorite End Cut, 3.25g, Sharply Defined Chondrules

Primitive chondrules frozen in time

This 3.25g end cut exposes the internal structure of NWA 17364, an LL3.10 ordinary chondrite that preserves exceptionally primitive features from the solar nebula. The cut face reveals sharply defined spherical chondrules standing in clear relief against the surrounding matrix. The low metamorphic grade means these millimeter-scale spheres retain their original boundaries and internal textures with minimal alteration since their formation 4.567 billion years ago.

The end cut format provides a cross-sectional window into the meteorite's interior while retaining one exterior surface. At 3.25 grams, this slice offers substantial viewing area for the chondrule population and matrix structure that characterize this rarely classified subtype.

Structure and features

Chondrules dominate the visible structure, appearing as distinct spherical to elliptical grains distributed throughout the matrix. The LL group designation indicates low total iron and low metal content compared to other ordinary chondrites. The 3.10 petrologic subtype reflects the minimal thermal processing this material experienced on its parent asteroid.

The primitive matrix between chondrules retains fine-grained material and has not recrystallized into coarser textures. Chondrule boundaries remain sharp rather than blurred by metamorphic integration with surrounding material. This structural preservation makes LL3.10 specimens valuable for understanding pre-accretionary processes in the solar nebula.

Scientific context

LL ordinary chondrites formed in the asteroid belt approximately 4.567 billion years ago from dust and chondrules that condensed in the solar nebula. The parent asteroid accreted these materials while remaining cool enough to prevent significant thermal alteration. Petrologic type 3.10 sits at the primitive end of the metamorphic sequence, having experienced temperatures barely sufficient to cause any structural change.

This low degree of thermal processing means the chondrules and matrix preserve their original compositional and textural characteristics. Researchers study such primitive specimens to understand conditions in the early solar system before planetary differentiation began. The LL group specifically provides insight into the oxidation state and volatile content of materials that formed in one particular region of the asteroid belt. Learn About Meteorites to explore how classification systems organize these extraterrestrial materials.

Frequently asked questions

Is this meteorite authenticated? NWA 17364 is classified in the Meteoritical Bulletin as an LL3.10 ordinary chondrite. You can verify this classification at the Meteoritical Bulletin database. Each specimen includes a certificate of authenticity documenting its classification and provenance.

What does the 3.10 petrologic type mean? The number 3.10 indicates this chondrite experienced minimal thermal metamorphism after formation. Type 3.0 to 3.9 chondrites are considered primitive, with lower numbers representing less heating. At 3.10, NWA 17364 retains nearly pristine chondrules and matrix from the solar nebula with only slight thermal alteration.

What is included with this specimen? You receive the 3.25g end cut displayed in a transparent gem box and a certificate of authenticity. The gem box allows viewing from multiple angles while protecting the specimen.

Why are LL chondrites less common than H and L types? LL ordinary chondrites represent material from a specific parent asteroid with lower iron and metal content than the more abundant H and L groups. Fewer LL parent body fragments reach Earth, making classified specimens less available to collectors compared to other ordinary chondrite types.

Collector significance

LL3.10 chondrites occupy a narrow classification window that makes them substantially less common than higher petrologic types. The combination of LL group chemistry and 3.10 metamorphic grade represents a small fraction of available ordinary chondrite material. Collectors seeking primitive chondrites focus on subtypes below 3.15 for their preserved nebular features.

This end cut format provides display value by exposing internal structure while maintaining specimen integrity. The 3.25g mass offers sufficient size to observe multiple chondrules and matrix characteristics without requiring magnification. The transparent gem box presentation allows examination of both the cut face and the exterior surface. Browse our Chondrites collection to compare structural features across different ordinary chondrite groups and petrologic types.

Meteoritical Bulletin entry: NWA 17364 | Classification: LL3.10 Ordinary Chondrite | Find, Mali, 2022