END PIECE OF NEW SILICATED IRON METEORITE — THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF AN EXOTIC METEORITE REVEALED
Silicated Iron, IAB
Algeria

Silicated iron meteorites represent less than 1% of all meteorites. The meteorite from which this slice originated was recently found in southern Algeria by nomadic Berbers. It is as yet unnamed—a situation to be soon remedied by the Nomenclature Committee of the Meteoritical Society. Featuring the signature formica-like appearance of the most resplendent silicated iron meteorites, this end piece showcases large, dark silicate inclusions scattered throughout its crystalline metallic matrix; an intergrowth of nickel-iron alloys that is diagnostic in the identification of a meteorite.

This is the largest end piece from the second largest mass associated with this meteorite shower—a very spare event by iron meteorite standards. The total known weight of the entire shower with which this meteorite is associated is less than 200 kilograms, and it should be noted most iron meteorite showers include a single meteorite that weighs more. The external surface of the specimen now offered has a dull platinum patina—a most atypical finish that is the result of natural sandblasting in the Algerian desert over a period of at least hundreds of years.

The external surface also features swatches of glazed fusion crust, the result of burning through the atmosphere during its descent to Earth. Mounted on a custom armature, and with a Macovich Collection provenance—this is a rarely available large end piece of an exotic meteorite.

4.28 kilograms and 199 x 133 x 74mm (7.75 x 5 x 3 inches)

Estimate: $14,500