NWA XXX Carbonaceous Chondrite Meteorite Individual, CM2-type, 21.95g, Oriented with Fusion Crust

Oriented carbonaceous chondrite with atmospheric flight features

This 21.95g individual shows directional heating marks and preserved fusion crust across approximately 50% of its surface, evidence of stable atmospheric orientation during entry. The darker, fine-grained exterior is consistent with CM2-type carbonaceous material, though this specimen remains unclassified. The stone retains its natural flight-formed shape with minimal fragmentation, combining scientific interest with visual clarity for display.

CM2-type material is among the most primitive in meteorite collections, representing chemically unaltered solar nebula components and evidence of water-rock interaction on the parent body. This individual's preserved exterior makes those early solar system processes directly observable without laboratory thin-sectioning.

Structure and features

The fusion crust shows glossy black glass where atmospheric heating was most intense, transitioning to darker matrix-rich material beneath. Oriented stones like this form when a meteorite maintains consistent flight geometry during atmospheric passage, producing asymmetric heating patterns visible as directional flow lines and varying crust thickness. The stone's shape reflects aerodynamic sculpting rather than random fragmentation.

Regmaglypts, or thumbprint-like depressions, mark areas where differential ablation occurred during entry. The fine-grained matrix typical of CM2-type carbonaceous chondrites appears darker and more fragile than ordinary chondrite material, reflecting higher carbon content and phyllosilicate minerals from parent body aqueous alteration billions of years ago.

Scientific context

CM2 carbonaceous chondrites preserve the most primitive solid matter in the solar system, material that condensed directly from the solar nebula over 4.5 billion years ago. These meteorites contain hydrated minerals formed when liquid water circulated through their parent asteroid, altering olivine and pyroxene into clay minerals while leaving organic compounds and presolar grains intact. That combination of aqueous alteration and preserved primitive components makes CM2 chondrites scientifically significant for understanding early solar system chemistry and the conditions that may have led to life.

While this specimen is not formally classified, its physical characteristics align with known CM2 properties: dark matrix, fine grain size, and relatively low density compared to ordinary chondrites. Collectors and researchers value these meteorites for their connection to the earliest planetary processes. Learn more about meteorite identification and classification in our Learn About Meteorites guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is this meteorite authenticated? This specimen is an unclassified Northwest Africa find from 2025, identified as consistent with CM2-type carbonaceous chondrite material based on physical characteristics. Because it has not been submitted for formal classification through the Meteoritical Society, it is presented as CM2-type rather than a confirmed CM2 chondrite. A certificate of authenticity documenting its meteoritic origin is included with purchase.

What does "oriented" mean for a meteorite? Oriented meteorites maintained a stable flight attitude during atmospheric entry, causing directional heating and asymmetric fusion crust development. This produces recognizable aerodynamic features like flow lines, leading-edge ablation, and trailing-edge smoothness, making the stone's atmospheric passage history visible in its final form.

What is included with this specimen? You receive the 21.95g carbonaceous chondrite individual exactly as shown, with certificate of authenticity. No display stand is included unless separately confirmed.

Why is this listed as CM2-type instead of CM2? The Meteoritical Bulletin has not published a classification for this specimen, so scientific accuracy requires using "CM2-type" to describe observed characteristics rather than stating a confirmed classification. This distinction maintains integrity while accurately describing what the stone appears to be based on physical examination.

What is the significance of fusion crust on carbonaceous chondrites? Fusion crust on carbonaceous material is particularly valued because these meteorites are more fragile than iron-rich stones and often lose their exterior through weathering or handling. Preserved crust directly documents atmospheric entry and provides visual contrast against the darker interior matrix.

Collector significance

Carbonaceous chondrites represent less than 5% of observed meteorite falls, making them substantially less common in collections than ordinary chondrites or iron meteorites. CM2-type material is sought specifically for its scientific importance and distinctive appearance: darker color, lower density, and fine-grained texture that differentiates it immediately from more common stony meteorites.

This individual's oriented exterior and partial fusion crust preservation add display value beyond generic carbonaceous fragments. The stone stands independently without requiring a mount, and its directional heating features tell a readable story about atmospheric entry mechanics. For collectors building representative type collections or focusing on primitive solar system material, CM2-type specimens occupy an essential position. Browse additional primitive meteorites in our Carbonaceous Chondrites collection.