History: It is quite clear that meteorite collectors in Northwest Africa have discovered a large L chondrite strewn field at an undisclosed location. At least 2 metric tons of material comprising thousands of individuals has been sold under the name NWA 869 in the market places of Morocco and around the world. Individual masses are known to range from <1 g to >20 kg. It is certain that NWA 869 is paired with other NWA meteorites, although no systematic survey has been done. It is also possible that some stones sold as NWA 869 are not part of the same fall, although dealers are confident that most of the known masses are sufficiently distinctive from other NWA meteorites in terms of surface and internal appearance that the error rate should be fairly low. Scientists are advised to confirm the classification of any specimens they obtain before publishing results under this name.

Petrography and Geochemistry: (A. Rubin, UCLA) A fragmental breccia of type 4–6 material; one thin section dominated by an L5 lithology gave olivine (Fa24.2).

Classification: Ordinary chondrite (L4–6); W 1, S3.

SOURCE: Meteoritical Bulletin Database

The NWA 869 meteorite is famous for its HUGE chondrules and interesting matrix. Very beautiful when sliced! Some of the larger pieces you see are over 90 grams. Most pieces range in size from 10-40 grams. The bottom group LOT of 256 grams are under 10 grams. The LOT of 230 grams are 10-20 grams each, and the Larger piece LOT of 468 grams range from 24 to 92 grams! Scroll to the bottom of page for more close ups of the more interesting and prettier pieces. Some have 100% or 99% fusion crust!