Komatiite Barberton Greenstone Belt [36 gm - 3.3 Ga]

Komatiite is a fascinating ultramafic volcanic rock with a unique origin. This specimen of komatiite is from the Pioneer Complex, Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa. Here are some interesting facts about komatiite:

Definition and Characteristics:
- Komatiites are defined as having crystallized from a lava with at least 18 wt% magnesium oxide (MgO).
- They are classified as 'picritic rocks' due to their low silicon, potassium, and aluminum content, along with high to extremely high magnesium levels.
- The name "komatiite" comes from its type locality along the Komati River in South Africa.
- A distinctive feature of komatiites is the "spinifex texture", which consists of large dendritic plates of olivine and pyroxene.

Geological Age:
- Almost all komatiites were formed during the Archean Eon, which occurred approximately 4.03 to 2.5 billion years ago.
- The restriction in age is likely due to the cooling of the Earth's mantle. During the Archaean, the mantle may have been 100–250 °C (212–482 °F) hotter than it is today.
- The early Earth had higher heat production due to residual heat from planetary accretion and greater abundance of radioactive isotopes.

Specifics About this Specimen:

Size of Specimen: 75mm L X 54mm W X 7mm D; Weight: 36 grams. Note: Thin cut. Can be fragile. Handle carefully. Plexiglass riser and sizing cube not included.

It ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, information about komatiite, tag, tag stand and XRF.

Some complain about the price. The price reflects that this specimen is a choice cut of komatiite. The superb spinifex texture AND an XRF make this specimen excel in every way. Others, wherever they are - do not offer this!

Buy one of early Earth's rarest and oldest lava from Barberton, South Africa and enjoy the beauty of this terrific specimen!