Collection
Classification: Polymict Diogenite Breccia – DIO (Diogenite), HED
Observed fall: No
Year found: 2017
City, Country: Northwest Africa
Mass: 305 g
In collection
Weight #1 : 3,29 g
Weight #2 : 1,04 g
Certificate of authenticity: Yes (2)
The NWA 11450 meteorite is classified as a Diogenite (DIO) and further categorized as a Polymict Diogenite Breccia, originating from the Northwest Africa (NWA) region. As a polymict breccia, NWA 11450 is composed of numerous fragmented clasts of diogenitic material—primarily orthopyroxene-rich rocks—cemented together by a fine-grained matrix. This meteorite is believed to originate from the mantle of asteroid 4 Vesta, one of the largest objects in the asteroid belt and a primary source of HED (Howardite-Eucrite-Diogenite) meteorites. The diverse clast composition and brecciated texture of NWA 11450 provide valuable insights into the collisional history and magmatic processes that occurred within Vesta’s interior. Studying this meteorite helps scientists understand the differentiation and geological evolution of differentiated asteroids, shedding light on the early solar system’s formation and the dynamic processes that shaped planetary bodies.
When examining a Diogenite under a light microscope, several distinctive features can be observed:
Orthopyroxene (Enstatite): Dominant mineral, appearing as elongated, high-relief grains with distinct cleavage planes at nearly 90 degrees.
Olivine (Forsterite): Light green to yellow-green, high relief, and absence of twinning.
Plagioclase Feldspar: Light-colored, displaying polysynthetic twinning under crossed polarizers
Silicate Minerals: Predominantly fine orthopyroxene and plagioclase feldspar grains. Glass and Microlites: Volcanic Glass: Present as featureless, glassy regions indicating rapid cooling.
