Description: NWA 10961: The King of Martian Shergottite Poikilitic Ultramafic **Introduction:** NWA 10961 is a remarkable meteorite classified as a Martian Shergottite Poikilitic Ultramafic, often referred to as "The King of Martian" for its distinct and captivating features. This specimen showcases a unique combination of colors, including green, brown, and black, and contains intriguing pockets of dark, quenched shock glass that set it apart from other meteorites. **Weight and Presentation:** This part-slice of NWA 10961 weighs 3.688 grams and features a soft polish on one side, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing view of its internal structure. It comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) card and a display case, making it an excellent piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. **Petrography:** Analyzed by A. Irving and S. Kuehner from the University of Washington, the petrographic examination reveals the following key characteristics: - **Poikilitic Texture:** The meteorite exhibits a poikilitic texture, where large twinned pyroxene oikocrysts encompass smaller grains known as chadacrysts. - **Pyroxene Oikocrysts:** The pyroxene oikocrysts are essentially unzoned, featuring undulose extinction characteristics, which indicate the effects of deformation during the meteorites formation. - **Chadacrysts of Olivine:** Embedded within the pyroxene, chadacrysts of olivine can be observed, some of which display a brownish hue under thin section examination. - **Chromite and Maskelynite:** Cr-rich chromite occurs alongside very sparse maskelynite (~2 vol.%), which exists as interstitial grains, indicating the extent of shock metamorphism the sample experienced. - **Accessory Minerals:** Additional minerals including Ti-bearing chromite, ilmenite, and rare Mg-merrillite have been identified within the specimen. - **Quenched Shock Glass:** Dark, quenched shock glass pockets are present, suggesting the impact origin of the meteorite and its exposure to extreme conditions. **Geochemistry:** The geochemical composition of NWA 10961 has been thoroughly assessed, revealing: - **Olivine Composition:** Fa29.5-31.2 with a FeO/MnO ratio of 41-46 (N = 3). - **Orthopyroxene:** Fs19.4-20.7Wo2.7-3.6, with an FeO/MnO ratio of 20-28 (N = 3). - **Augite:** Exhibiting Fs13.0-13.8Wo38.2-35.0, with a FeO/MnO ratio of 22-24 (N = 2). - **Maskelynite:** Composition of An53.8-55.6Or1.1-1.0 (N = 2), showcasing the mineral's alteration from feldspar due to shock. **Conclusion:** NWA 10961 stands out as a significant specimen within the Martian meteorite collection. Its poikilitic texture, diverse mineralogy, and striking visual appeal, coupled with a well-documented history and scientific analysis, contribute to its esteemed status as "The King of Martian." This specimen not only offers insights into Martian geology but also provides an extraordinary opportunity for collectors to own a piece of our neighboring planet.
Price: 750 USD
Location: Riverside, California
End Time: 2025-01-14T02:55:21.000Z
Shipping Cost: 11 USD
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