Description: Bechar 006 Meteorite Write-Up **Classification:** Bechar 006 is classified as a rare Lunar Feldspathic Breccia. This intriguing meteorite specimen is notable for its unique mineral composition and its significance in the study of lunar material. **Physical Characteristics:** This particular endcut of Bechar 006 weighs 8.159 grams and features a fine polish that highlights the intricacies of its cut surface. It is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) card and a protective display case, making it an attractive addition for collectors and researchers alike. The Bechar meteorites exhibit two distinct appearances based on their discovery conditions. Surface samples typically display light brown exteriors, whereas those found buried exhibit whitish surfaces that may contain orange caliche. Notably, all stones are devoid of fusion crust, a feature that often indicates atmospheric entry and rapid heating. The interiors of these specimens are predominantly gray, interspersed with dark gray and white clasts, and some metallic grains that are visible to the naked eye. **Petrography:** According to studies conducted by K. Metzler (IfP), Bechar 006 is characterized as a fine-grained polymict breccia. The meteorite consists of a mixture of mineral fragments, chiefly plagioclase, various pyroxenes (including Ca-rich pyroxene), and olivine. Additionally, there are a few anorthositic lithic clasts embedded within a compacted fine-grained matrix. This matrix partly signifies a crystallized melt, which is indicative of high-energy impact conditions. Notably, subrounded units of clast-rich impact melt rocks are present, contributing to the breccia's complexity. Accessory minerals such as ilmenite, troilite, and nickel-bearing metal are also found within the matrix, and a zircon grain (~25 m) has been identified. **History:** The Bechar 006 meteorite is part of a larger collection discovered in March 2022 and the following months by meteorite hunters in the Bechar region of Algeria. Approximately 7 kg of material was acquired by notable collectors and researchers, including Mohamed Ali Loud, Miguel Angel Contreras Gomez, and Viktor Plamenov Ivanov. The discovery of hundreds of stones in this region provides valuable insight into the history and formation of lunar materials and their transfer to Earth. **Lunar Feldspathic Breccia Significance:** Lunar Feldspathic Breccia represents a key component of lunar geology. These meteorites originate from the impact processes on the Moon's surface, often comprising fragments from various sources mixed within a fine-grained matrix. The study of such breccias offers vital information on the Moon's geological history, including the processes of formation, differentiation, and impact metamorphism. The unique mineral compositions found in lunar meteorites like Bechar 006 can aid scientists in understanding the conditions present on the Moon and how these materials relate to Earths formation. **Location:** Bechar 006 was located in Bechar, Algeria, with geographical coordinates of 30.894N, 3.395W. **Purchase:** This specimen was purchased in 2022, adding to the growing collection of lunar materials available for academic and personal study. Conclusion Bechar 006 stands out as a rare and scientifically valuable example of lunar meteorites, embodying a rich history and diverse mineralogy that contributes to our understanding of lunar geology. Its polished surface, fortified with a COA and display case, renders it an exceptional specimen for both collectors and researchers dedicated to the exploration of extraterrestrial materials.
Price: 575 USD
Location: Riverside, California
End Time: 2024-12-16T02:16:36.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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