Nuvvuagittuq: Earth's Oldest Known Remnant of Hadean Crust

Key Features:

Ancient Origins: This museum-grade, extra large, and extraordinary Nuvvuagittuq garnet paragneiss specimen is among the oldest rocks found on Earth. It is from the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt, home of the rare and fascinating "faux amphibolite." Nestled along the eastern shore of Hudson Bay in Northern Canada, this geological area was formerly known as "Porpoise Cove." This specimen contains abundant garnet paragneiss.
Rare Composition: The Nuvvuagittuq greenstone belt, with a dominant lithology formed at ~4.28 Ga, would make it the only known remnant of the Hadean crust preserved on Earth. The dominant lithology of the belt has a mafic composition that consists of gneisses ranging from cummingtonite amphibolite to garnet+biotite schist composed of variable proportions of cummingtonite, biotite, quartz, plagioclase, garnet, anthophyllite, cordierite. The composition ranges from basalt to andesite and is divided into two distinct geochemical groups that are stratigraphically separated by a banded iron formation.
Age Date: Sm-Nd anamolous values from this locality brings evidence to the table that some protoliths in the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt may be greater than 4.3 billion years. Interpretation of data, as in the majority of scientific disciplines, continues to be debated.
Early Life Debate: There is conjecture among scientists that there might be evidence of fossilized microorganisms in these early rocks. These supracrustal areas constitute the only areas of opportunity scientists have for the earliest biological evidence for early life on Earth. The search continues for resolution to these questions and answers.
Geologic Terms: There are differences between the uses for the geological terms greenstone belt, banded iron formation and supracrustal in relation to the Nuvvuagittuq locality and the rocks associated with the region.
Specimen Size: The specimen measures 167mm L X 103mm W X 76mm D and Weighs 1,774.2 grams. It was legally collected in one of Earth's most remote and geologically premier locations.
Provenance Guaranteed: Rest assured, this specimen ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, a tag, a tag stand, and comprehensive information about the Nuvvuagittuq Supercrustal Belt. An in situ regional photo is also included, providing a visual testament to the specimen's authenticity and unique origins.

Why Choose This Specimen? This Nuvvuagittuq garnet paragneiss specimen is an exceedingly rare find that would make an important contribution to any serious geological collection. Its ancient origins and unique composition make it a standout piece for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

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