Canyon Diablo Graphite Nodule Slice – Meteor Crater, Arizona, USA

Among the most scientifically significant and visually intriguing materials recovered from Arizona's famed Meteor Crater, Canyon Diablo Graphite Nodules represent a rare intersection of planetary violence, deep-time history, and collector prestige. This specimen is a slice of a graphite nodule, offering a rare cross-sectional view into the interior structure of one of these extraordinary masses — revealing the graphite matrix, metallic veining, and internal textures that make Canyon Diablo nodules so scientifically and aesthetically compelling.

These fascinating nodules have been studied by scientists for generations, with ongoing research continuing to reveal new insights into the earliest periods of our solar system. While graphite occurs in several iron meteorites, the Canyon Diablo meteorite is renowned for producing the largest and most abundant graphite nodules ever discovered. These nodules are typically found associated with minerals such as troilite and schreibersite, but the larger spherical graphite masses are compositionally distinct and highly sought after by advanced collectors. Many specimens display dramatic metallic veining running through the graphite matrix.

Some evidence even points toward multiple catastrophic impacts occurring long before the parent body ultimately collided with Earth to form Barringer Crater. The metallic veins themselves often show depleted concentrations of elements such as rhenium, osmium, iridium, and platinum compared to the surrounding meteoritic iron. This strongly supports the theory that molten meteoritic metal was shock-injected into the graphite during ancient impact-induced heating events.

Graphite nodules are generally softer than surrounding meteoritic iron and polish beautifully during preparation, often developing a rich metallic sheen and striking natural contrast. Some specimens may even contain microscopic diamonds formed under extreme pressure conditions. Today, authentic Canyon Diablo Graphite Nodules are considered highly desirable collector specimens and appear on the market only sporadically.

Collector Highlights:

• Authentic Canyon Diablo meteorite material from Arizona, USA
• Rare slice of a graphite nodule — cross-section reveals interior structure
• Displays natural metallic veining and graphite matrix
• Scientifically studied for evidence of early solar system collisions
• Highly collectible and increasingly difficult to obtain
• Exceptional display specimen with museum-quality provenance appeal

Weight: 20.3 g | Size: 30 × 17 × 14 mm