Description: Amgala 001 Meteorite - Martian Shergottite (Olivine-Phyric) **Overview:** Amgala 001 is a stunning example of a Martian shergottite meteorite, classified specifically as olivine-phyric. Weighing 9.770 grams, this exquisite endcut showcases a beautifully polished surface that brings forth the unique characteristics and beauty of Martian geology. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) and a display case, this exquisite specimen is perfect for both collectors and researchers alike. **Location and Acquisition:** - **Coordinates:** 26.014N, 11.020W - **Location:** Saguia el Hamra, Western Sahara - **Date of Purchase:** December 2022 **Petrography:** In-depth analysis was carried out by A. Irving (University of Washington) and P. Carpenter (WUSL). The mineralogical composition consists of zoned olivine phenocrysts, which can reach up to 2 mm in length, embedded within a variably sized groundmass primarily featuring prismatic, zoned clinopyroxene and lath-like maskelynite. Accessory minerals include alkali feldspar, pyrrhotite, ulvspinel, chromite with varying titanium content, ilmenite, baddeleyite, and chlorapatite. The specimen also exhibits thin opaque shock veins that cut through the meteorite, as well as some secondary calcite veinlets. Notably, the olivine phenocrysts show small patches of alteration products that are red-brown in thin section. **Physical Characteristics:** The exterior of Amgala 001 presents a weathered brown surface with a distinctive knobby appearance, giving it a rugged yet unique allure. However, the freshly exposed interiors reveal a captivating greenish-gray color with visible, darker olivine phenocrysts that further enhance its aesthetic appeal. **Geochemistry:** The geochemical analysis reveals a complex composition: - **Olivine:** Fa31.7-56.6, FeO/MnO = 52-55 (N = 5) - **Pigeonite:** Fs27.7-48.4Wo10.4-9.8, FeO/MnO = 29-35 (N = 3) - **Subcalcic Augite:** Fs20.7-30.4Wo32.5-34.6, FeO/MnO = 28-32 (N = 2) - **Maskelynite:** An47.4-50.5Or2.2-1.7 (N = 2) - **Alkali Feldspar:** Ab49.4Or34.0An16.7 **Classification:** Amgala 001 is classified as a Martian meteorite, specifically a shergottite of the olivine-phyric subtype. Shergottites are predominantly basaltic meteorites that originate from Mars, forming through volcanic activity. Their olivine-phyric composition suggests they crystallized from molten rock, capturing the historical volcanic processes that have shaped the Martian landscape. **Martian Shergottites - Olivine-Phyric Basalts:** Shergottites are characterized by the presence of olivine phenocrysts, which contribute to their olivine-phyric classification. These meteorites typically feature a rich crystalline structure, indicating they formed from low-viscosity basaltic magma. Their geological significance lies in their presumed volcanic origins on Mars and insights into the planet's magmatic evolution. The presence of minerals such as clinopyroxene and maskelynite provides vital clues about the temperature and pressure conditions during their formation, shedding light on Mars' igneous history. In summary, Amgala 001 is not only a beautiful addition to any meteorite collection but also serves as a fascinating piece of Martian history, reflecting the dynamic processes of one of our solar system's most intriguing planets.
Price: 1000 USD
Location: Riverside, California
End Time: 2025-02-04T07:49:46.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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