Apex Chert Pilbara Australia [8.9 gm ~3.49 Ga]

Apex Chert: Revealing Ancient Mysteries

Unlocking the mysteries of Earth's earliest life has been quite a journey for scientists. Once a subject of debate, Apex Chert from the Pilbara region in Western Australia has now unveiled its perplexities. A pivotal scientific paper published in 2018 confirmed the presence of 11 Archeal microbial fossils within this remarkable specimen. Researchers identified two primitive photosynthesizers, two methane consumers, and one methane producer. These findings demonstrate that the Archean "tree of life" was active ~ 3.49 - 3.46 Ga, confirming the biogenicity of Apex fossils.

Fascinating Links to Martian Life

The intrigue extends further. Interestingly, the filaments found in Apex Chert resemble structures discovered in ALH 84001, a meteorite from Antarctica believed to contain ancient Martian life. While the debate over life in the meteorite continues, this connection suggests the possibility of microfossil life on Mars. The quest for evidence of life on the Red Planet continues with ongoing missions.

Insights into Extraterrestrial Existence

Discoveries like Apex Chert provide valuable insights into the potential for life beyond Earth. Scientists are now examining molecular signatures in exoplanet atmospheres to better understand different life forms that may exist elsewhere in the universe. We are on the brink of an exciting new frontier in science, potentially uncovering how life began on our planet.

Product Details

Size: 39mm L X 34mm W X 5mm D
Weight: 8.9 grams

Included with Your Purchase

This Apex Chert specimen arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand, and a copy of relevant scientific information about the SIMS microfossils found in Apex Chert. An in-situ photo is also included! Please note that an acrylic display stand is included but the photo cube is not included.

Provenance and Rarity

This rock specimen originates from the exact outcrop collected by Bonnie Packer and analyzed by J. William Schopf. This material is extremely rare and is found only in a few museums and private collections. It has been described and studied in scientific publications and textbooks for over 40 years.

Note: This Apex Chert was legally collected.

This Apex Chert specimen arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand, and a copy of relevant scientific information about the SIMS microfossils found in Apex Chert. An in-situ photo is also included along with a specimen stand.