Collection
Classification: CV3 (Vigarano-like) carbonaceous chondrite
Observed fall: No
Year found: 2014
City, Country: Northwest Africa
Mass: 437 g
In collection
Weight #1 : 2,85 g
Weight #2 : 1,99 g
Certificate of authenticity: Yes (2)
The NWA 10235 meteorite is classified as a CV3 (Vigarano-like) carbonaceous chondrite, discovered in Northwest Africa. As a member of the CV group of carbonaceous chondrites, it is characterized by a high content of refractory inclusions and large, well-defined chondrules. The “Vigarano-like” designation indicates that NWA 10235 belongs to the reduced subgroup of CV chondrites, which are less oxidized compared to their Allende-like counterparts. This meteorite contains abundant calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) and presolar grains, making it a valuable specimen for studying the early solar system. Its primitive composition and well-preserved components provide insights into the processes that occurred in the solar nebula, contributing to our understanding of planetary formation and the origin of organic compounds in meteorites.
When examining a CV3 under a light microscope, several distinctive features can be observed:
Well-Preserved Chondrules: Spherical to elliptical silicate grains ranging from sub-millimeter to a few millimeters in size.
Calcium-Aluminum-Rich Inclusions (CAIs): Irregularly shaped, light-colored inclusions that stand out against the darker matrix. CAIs often appear bright under reflected light and show complex internal structures under polarized light.
Fine-Grained Matrix: Dark, fine-grained material surrounding chondrules and inclusions.
