NWA 869 Meteorite Slice 10-15mm Genuine Chondrite Stone Meteorite from Sahara Desert – Authentic Space Rock with COA

NWA 869 Meteorite Slice – Genuine Chondrite from the Sahara Desert

This exceptional NWA 869 meteorite slice is a genuine specimen from the Northwest Africa (NWA) 869 strewn field, discovered in the Sahara Desert. Each slice, measuring approximately 10–15mm, is a finely cut and polished section revealing the internal structure of one of the most famous meteorites ever found. The specimen in the photograph is the exact piece you will receive, not a stock image. These slices display a remarkable mix of metal flecks, chondrules, and silicate inclusions that provide a direct glimpse into the formation of our Solar System over 4.5 billion years ago.

Scientific Classification and Composition

The NWA 869 meteorite is classified as an L4–6 ordinary chondrite breccia, a type of stony meteorite composed primarily of olivine, pyroxene, nickel-iron metal, and troilite. Its designation “L” refers to low iron content, while “4–6” indicates that the material has undergone variable degrees of thermal metamorphism on its parent asteroid. This classification places NWA 869 among the most studied and collectible meteorites due to its complex structure, which combines unequilibrated chondrules with regions of metamorphic recrystallisation.

Microscopic analysis of NWA 869 reveals chondrules — small, spherical silicate grains formed in the solar nebula before planets existed. These chondrules are embedded in a fine-grained matrix interspersed with nickel-iron metal flakes that shimmer under reflected light. The brecciated texture indicates a long geological history of impact events and lithification on the asteroid’s surface, making every slice of this meteorite a true record of cosmic evolution.

Origin and Discovery

The NWA 869 meteorite was first identified in northwestern Africa and officially classified in 2000 by A. Irving and J. Wittke. Thousands of fragments were recovered from the Sahara Desert near Tindouf, Algeria, covering a vast strewn field. The arid conditions of the desert have preserved the material beautifully, resulting in specimens with exceptional visual and scientific quality.

Its parent body is believed to have originated from the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, where collisions sent fragments hurtling toward Earth millions of years ago. After entering the Earth’s atmosphere, the meteorite slowed and fragmented, scattering over the desert sands where it was eventually discovered by meteorite hunters.

Visual and Structural Features

Each slice of NWA 869 reveals a striking mosaic of grey, tan, and metallic tones, with visible chondrules and flecks of metal distributed throughout the matrix. Some specimens also display shock veins and impact melt pockets, evidence of ancient collisions in space. The cut surface is polished to accentuate these internal details, making it both a scientifically valuable and visually stunning piece.

Authenticity and Presentation

All of our meteorite specimens are 100% genuine and come with a Certificate of Authenticity verifying their identification and origin. The specimen shown is the exact meteorite slice you will receive, photographed under natural light for accuracy. The scale cube equals 1cm, allowing you to assess full dimensions from the accompanying images.

A Timeless Collector’s Piece

Owning a slice of the NWA 869 meteorite is to hold a fragment of the early Solar System in your hand. These meteorites predate the Earth itself and preserve the original material from which the planets formed. Whether you are a passionate collector, educator, or admirer of natural history, this NWA 869 slice offers a unique opportunity to own an authentic space rock with immense geological and scientific significance.

Every detail of this specimen – from its shimmering metallic inclusions to its ancient chondritic matrix – tells the story of creation, impact, and survival across billions of years of cosmic history.