Komatiite Weltevreden Fm Barberton Africa [174 g ~ 3.5 Ga]

Rare Komatiite Specimen from Barberton 

This exceptional komatiite specimen hails from the Pioneer Ultramafic Complex, Weltevreden Formation, within the renowned Barberton Greenstone Belt in South Africa. Known for its rarity, this geological marvel features prominent spinifex textured bladed olivine, easily visible and striking in appearance. The term "spinifex" originates from Australian grass that grows in similar clumps.

Specimen Features

• Lightly polished front with a colorful crust encircling the specimen.
• Includes XRF analysis for detailed composition insights.
• This specimen is stable with no repairs, as evidenced by the back crust. It ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand, protective box, and detailed information about the specimen. Please note that the acrylic stand and sizing cube are not included.

About Komatiite

Komatiite is a rare, ultramafic, mantle-derived volcanic rock. It is characterized by low silicon, potassium, and aluminum content, but high magnesium levels. Named after its type locality along the Komati River, komatiites are significant for understanding Earth's early geological history.

Geological Significance

True komatiites are extremely rare volcanic rocks from the Archean eon (4.0–2.5 billion years ago), forged when Earth’s mantle was far hotter than today. This specimen reveals striking forsteritic olivine blades intergrown with chromian pyroxene, anorthite, and chromite—showcasing pristine Archean mineralogy.

Global Distribution and Associations

Komatiites are associated with nickel and gold deposits in regions such as Australia, Canada, South Africa, and the Guiana Shield in South America.

Specimen Details

• Size: 102mm L x 72mm W x 18mm D
• Weight: 174 grams
• Legality: Professionally and legally collected.

Fascinating Komatiite Museum Specimen

Discover the vision of deep time—this Barberton komatiite specimen lets you own a fragment of Earth’s earliest lava flows!

This scientific material is Guaranteed Authentic. It was professionally and legally collected and arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity.