Nuvvuagittuq Faux Amphibolite Garnets [119 gm ~ 4.3 Ga]

Remarkable Nuvvuagittuq Garnet Paragneiss Faux Amphibolite

Learn more about this rare scientific specimen from the remote Nuvvuagittuq Supercrustal Belt in northern Quebec, Canada, near Hudson Bay. This locality contains the oldest rock formation on Earth, dating back approximately 4.3 billion years! This region offers a rare glimpse into the early stages of Earth’s geological evolution, bridging the Hadean and early Archean eons. Its significance lies in its ancient age and the invaluable insights it provides into our planet’s early history.

Unique Geological Story

This specimen’s volcanic-sedimentary-metamorphic origin is evident in its composition, telling an extraordinary geologic story. The abundant garnets within the rock are a testament to the intense heat and pressure it has endured over 4 billion years, giving it a unique and remarkable appearance.

Sm-Nd anomalous values from this locality show that some protoliths in the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt may be greater than 4.3 billion years.

Faux Amphibolites

The Porpoise Cove locality contains rocks called ‘faux amphibolites.’ These rocks mainly consist of cummingtonite, biotite, quartz, plagioclase, garnet, anthophyllite, and cordierite. The 'faux amphibolites' have undergone extensive metamorphism, transforming their original volcanic and sedimentary origins into metamorphic rocks.

There is conjecture among scientists that there might be evidence of fossilized microorganisms in these rocks. These supracrustal areas constitute a rare opportunity for scientists to learn more about the earliest biological evidence for early life on Earth. The search continues for the resolution to these questions and answers.

What does "faux amphibolite" mean? Researchers coined the term “ faux amphibolite” due to the rocks’ unique composition, which is predominantly cummingtonite, an uncommon type of amphibolite.

Specimen Details

• Size: 67mm L x 51mm W x 16mm D
• Weight: 119 grams
• What's included: ships with a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed information about the ‘ faux amphibolite' garnetiferous gneiss from the Nuvvuagittuq Supercrustal Belt, tag, tag stand, and XRF. Plexiglass base and sizing cube are not included.
• Finish: This specimen was professionally polished flat and these ancient garnets are magnificent!

Claim to Fame: Earth's Incredible Geology

This might be a singular opportunity to obtain one of Earth's oldest and most fascinating rock specimens,  Nuvvuagittuq amphibolite garnet paragneiss from Porpoise Cove. This rock has remained relatively unchanged for 97% of Earth’s history. Few rocks on Earth can make this claim! 

This scientific material is Guaranteed Authentic. It was professionally and legally collected and arrives with a Certificate of Authenticity, information, tag, tag stand, and XRF.