Erg Chech 002 Oldest Magmatic Meteorite [1.52 gm ~ 4.566 Ga]

Erg Chech 002 Earth's Oldest Magmatic Rock 

The Erg Chech 002 meteorite is a rare relic of an ancient protoplanet, offering a glimpse into one of the early building blocks of our solar system. Protoplanets were large planetary embryos formed in the early solar nebula through accretion. They were massive enough to develop a differentiated core and mantle, similar to the structure of modern planets, but many were destroyed in collisions during the chaotic early solar system.

Polished Display of a Meteorite with Ancient Origins

This Erg Chech 002 specimen features a polished front for optimal display and an unpolished back, providing a detailed view of its unique texture and color. It makes a stunning addition to any meteorite collection, as it highlights the incredible journey of an ancient protoplanet fragment from the early solar system to Earth.

Discovery and Location

Erg Chech 002 was discovered in May 2020 in Adrar, Algeria, near Bir Ben Takoul in the Erg Chech sand sea. Dating back approximately 4.566 billion years, this meteorite is slightly older than the famous Allende meteorite (4.567 billion years). The calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) in Allende are among the first solids to condense from the solar nebula. However, while Allende’s CAIs are older, the bulk material in Erg Chech 002 makes it the oldest meteorite discovered, so far. Its age makes it older than Earth itself, which is estimated to be about 4.54 billion years old.

Appearance and Physical Characteristics

This meteorite lacks a fusion crust and has a coarse-grained texture. The tan and beige matrix is interspersed with larger green, yellow-green, and occasionally yellow-brown crystals, some as large as 9 cm by 4 cm. Minor reddish-brown staining results from regional groundmass.

Detailed Composition

Erg Chech 002’s groundmass includes a medium to coarse-grained mix of minerals, with pyroxene megacrysts (1.7 to 11.5 mm) displaying angular or ellipsoidal shapes, composed of orthopyroxene, pigeonite, and augite. Some low-calcium pyroxene cores contain thin lamellae and larger Ti-poor chromite inclusions. The dominant groundmass, averaging 1.5 mm in grain size, is made up of exsolved pigeonite radiating in clusters, with sodic plagioclase that transitions from oligoclase cores to albitic rims and features dagger-like K-feldspar blades.

Accessory Minerals and Weathering

Accessory minerals in Erg Chech 002 include Ti-chromite, ilmenite (sometimes found as rims on chromite), troilite, silica polymorphs, and merrillite. Rare clusters of Ni-poor metal are also found, typically associated with ilmenite, Ti-chromite, and troilite. Secondary weathering products like goethite replace primary troilite and metal, and minor calcite veinlets are visible. Some silica polymorphs display a unique "fish-scale" fracture pattern, reminiscent of cristobalite.

Specimen Details and What's Included

• Specimen Size: 25mm L x 14mm W x 2mm D
• Weight: 1.52 grams
• Ships with: Certificate of Authenticity (COA), tag, tag stand, and detailed information on Erg Chech 002.

Volcanic Rock Origins of Erg Chech 002

This volcanic rock likely originated from magma on a protoplanet, similar to volcanic rocks on Earth that crystallized from molten material. As an igneous rock, Erg Chech 002 represents volcanic or plutonic processes, depending on the crystallization location. It embodies the volcanic activity that shaped early planetary bodies, making it an exceptional example of volcanic protoplanet rock.

Purchase Earth's Oldest Volcanic Rock from a Protoplanet

This is an incredible opportunity to own a piece of Earth’s history! Dating back 4.566 billion years, Erg Chech 002 offers a unique view into the materials and processes involved in forming rocky planets like Earth, Mars, and Venus, as well as ancient protoplanets. This specimen is expertly polished for optimal viewing and is a remarkable display meteorite.

Ships with Certificate of Authenticity, tag, tag stand and information about Erg Chech 002. A copy of the original COA for guaranteed provenance is also included.