Meteorite | Achondrite | NWA 15915 | 13,64 g

Product detailed description

 NWA 15915 is an exceptionally rare and scientifically very interesting ungrouped achondrite from Algeria. It is a specific type of stony meteorite classified as a Mg-rich clinopyroxenite, whose mineralogical and isotopic composition distinguishes it from most known achondrites.

The total recorded mass is just 2.8 kg, and it is currently one of only 179 officially recognised meteorites classified as Achondrite-ung (ungrouped achondrite).

From a mineralogical point of view, NWA 15915 is truly unusual. It consists predominantly of almost pure augite, i.e. magnesium-rich clinopyroxene, supplemented by approximately 10 per cent enstatite. Smaller quantities of daubreelite, alabandin, troilite, low-nickel kamacite and secondary iron oxides are also present. Particularly noteworthy is the absence of olivine and plagioclase, which are common mineral constituents in many other stony meteorites.

 The structure of the meteorite is relatively coarse-grained, with an average grain size of around 2 mm. The fresh interior has a characteristic light beige to yellowish colour, whilst in some parts of the surface a dark fusion crust – formed during the meteorite’s passage through the Earth’s atmosphere – has been preserved. The results of oxygen isotope analysis are also very interesting, providing important information about the origin and geological evolution of the parent body. NWA 15915 exhibits a certain isotopic similarity to another rare magnesium-rich achondrite, NWA 13307; however, it differs from it mineralogically and contains significantly more clinopyroxene. It is precisely this combination of properties that has led to its classification as an ‘ungrouped’ achondrite.

 Thanks to its official classification, highly unusual mineral composition, low degree of weathering and the limited quantity of known material, NWA 15915 represents an attractive addition to any collection. It is intended primarily for collectors seeking truly unusual and scientifically documented meteorites, rather than merely common chondrites.

The price of the meteorite includes a display box and a certificate of authenticity.