Nuvvuagittuq Hydrothermal Jaspilite [38 gm ~4.3 Ga]

Microbial Fossil Jaspilite Hadean Hydrothermal Vents

This scientifically significant specimen of Jaspilite originates from Hadean-era hydrothermal vents located in the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt (NSB), Canada. This geological area contains some of Earth's oldest known rocks. Scientists regard this hydrothermal jaspilite as one of the earliest fossil records of life, dating back approximately ~ 4.3 Ga. It represents a crucial piece of Earth's deep-time Hadean geologic history, predating stromatolites and even early Cambrian life.

About Jaspilite Microfossils in Ancient Hydrothermal Systems

• Geologists studying NSB rock samples identified microscopic structures resembling ancient microbial life.
• These filament-like structures and tubes contain hematite, resembling microbial formations in modern hydrothermal vents.

Microfossils and Rosettes: Ancient Life Indicators

• Thin-section analysis of NSB fragments revealed unique rosette-like formations (50 - 200 μm).
• Scientists identified key minerals: calcite, hematite, quartz, magnetite, and apatite.
• These rosette-like structures bear striking similarities to hematite tubes, potentially representing ancient microfossils.

Iron-Metabolizing Filamentous Bacteria: Earth's Earliest Life Forms

• Modern iron-oxidizing bacteria form iron-rich filaments and tubes in hydrothermal vent environments.
• The iron-rich rosettes and tubular formations in NSB rocks suggest similar biological activity occurring ~ 4.3 Ga ago.

Astrobiology: Implications for Life's Origins

The discovery of these ancient microbial fossils supports the hypothesis that life may have originated in submarine hydrothermal vent systems. These environments, rich in minerals and chemical energy, are now a primary focus in the search for clues to potential extraterrestrial life on Mars and icy moons like Europa and Enceladus.

Specimen Details

Size:	62mm L x 61mm W x 5mm D
Weight:	38 grams
Origin:	Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt, Canada
Legality:	Professionally and legally collected.
Microscopy:	50X microphotography images of similar specimens shown.

What is Included?

• Certificate of Authenticity
• Identification tag and tag stand
• Information about the Nuvvuagittuq Supracrustal Belt (NSB) hydrothermal jaspilite
• Note: Specimen stand and sizing cube not included.

Why Add This to Your Collection?

• ✔ Rare, scientifically significant specimen – ideal for collectors interested in Earth's earliest life.
• ✔ Contributes to the study of early microbial ecosystems.
• ✔ A stunning display piece with an extraordinary history.

⚠ Limited availability – only a few of these remarkable specimens exist!

Ships with Certificate of Authenticity, tag and tag stand, and information about Nuvvuagittuq Hydrothermal Jaspilite.