NWA 869 Meteorite L5 Chondrite Algeria Genuine Space Rock with Fusion Crust COA

Description

Genuine NWA 869 Meteorite from Algeria

This listing offers a remarkable small meteorite specimen from the NWA 869 strewn field, discovered near Tindouf, Algeria. Classified as an L5 Common Chondrite, this specimen displays brecciation, carbon inclusions, and areas of primary fusion crust. The exact piece shown in the photographs is the specimen you will receive, with a 1cm scale cube included for accurate sizing. Every meteorite comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring that it is 100% genuine.

Discovery and Provenance

The NWA 869 strewn field was first discovered in 2000 and has since produced thousands of meteorite fragments of varying size and classification. The precise location of the field has been kept a closely guarded secret by local finders, but it lies in the desert region surrounding Tindouf, south of Agadir in Algeria. This particular specimen was obtained directly from a Berber collector in the region. NWA 869 has been studied extensively due to the wide range of material recovered, with classifications ranging from L3 to L6 depending on composition, texture, and inclusions.

Classification and Features

This meteorite is classified as an L5 chondrite, one of the most common types of meteorites to fall to Earth. Chondrites are stony meteorites that have not been melted or differentiated since their formation, preserving ancient material from the solar nebula. They contain chondrules – small, round mineral grains that are among the earliest solid matter formed in the solar system. The NWA 869 group is particularly known for brecciated structures, areas with higher nickel-iron content, and occasional carbon inclusions.

This specimen shows evidence of regmaglypting – thumbprint-like depressions caused by ablation during its fiery passage through Earth’s atmosphere. It also retains areas of primary fusion crust, the thin blackened layer formed during entry. Its relatively fresh condition suggests it fell to Earth less than 10,000 years ago.

Geological Significance

Chondritic meteorites like NWA 869 are some of the most scientifically important extraterrestrial materials available. Formed approximately 4.5 billion years ago, they preserve unaltered material from the early solar nebula, predating the formation of planets. As such, they are direct samples of the building blocks of the solar system, offering critical insight into planetary formation and early solar history. Their mineralogy often includes olivine, pyroxene, and metallic nickel-iron, along with trace elements that reveal conditions within the solar nebula.

Size and Display

Each specimen is unique in shape, texture, and colour, making it a one-of-a-kind addition to any collection. Measuring with reference to the 1cm scale cube in the photos, this meteorite is a hand-selected piece chosen for its visual appeal and scientific interest. Whether displayed in a collection case, used for educational purposes, or treasured as a piece of cosmic history, this meteorite makes a striking and authentic addition.

Collecting and Value

Meteorites are among the most fascinating collectibles, treasured both for their beauty and for the cosmic story they tell. NWA 869 is one of the most studied common chondrites, and specimens with preserved brecciation, fusion crust, and inclusions are highly desirable. Owning such a meteorite provides a tangible connection to the birth of the solar system and the dynamic processes that continue to shape our universe.

Authenticity Guarantee

All of our meteorites are 100% genuine specimens. This NWA 869 L5 Chondrite comes with a Certificate of Authenticity verifying its classification, provenance, and natural extraterrestrial origin. The specimen shown in the photographs is the exact one you will receive, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.