NWA 10265 Lodranite Meteorite Specimen Official Primitive Achondrite Northwest Africa

An authentic specimen of the officially classified Northwest Africa 10265 (NWA 10265) meteorite, a rare Lodranite primitive achondrite approved in Meteoritical Bulletin 104 in 2015. Lodranites are among the rarest meteorite classes known and are highly prized for their coarse crystalline textures, primitive achondritic structure, and unusual mineralogy.

NWA 10265 is especially notable for its striking interior composed of distinctly green pyroxene crystals and yellow-brown olivine with scattered metallic phases. The coarse-grained crystalline structure gives this meteorite exceptional visual appeal and makes it highly desirable among advanced collectors.

Official Classification

• Name: Northwest Africa 10265 (NWA 10265)
• Country: Northwest Africa
• Year Purchased: 2015
• Classification: Primitive Achondrite (Lodranite)
• Subtype: Wehrlitic Lodranite
• Shock Stage: Low
• Weathering Grade: Low
• Total Known Weight: 3.36 kg
• Official Publication: Meteoritical Bulletin 104

Physical Characteristics

Official reports describe: absence of fusion crust, coarse crystalline structure, green pyroxene grains, yellow-brown olivine, stained metallic phases, and large mineral grains up to 6.5 mm.

Scientific Composition

Scientific analysis identified: clinopyroxene, olivine, chromite, kamacite, troilite, and orthopyroxene exsolution lamellae.

The meteorite consists of a coarse protogranular aggregate texture rarely encountered in most meteorite classes, giving polished surfaces a highly aesthetic crystalline appearance similar to exotic terrestrial ultramafic rocks while remaining unmistakably extraterrestrial.

Lodranites are especially important because they occupy a rare transitional category between primitive chondritic material and fully differentiated achondrites. Their unusual mineralogy and scarcity make them highly sought after in advanced meteorite collecting circles.

Ideal For

• Primitive achondrite collectors
• Lodranite specialists
• Advanced meteorite collections
• Crystal-rich meteorite collectors
• Museum and educational displays
• Collectors seeking rare classified meteorites

Depending on preparation, specimens may display: green pyroxene crystals, yellow-brown olivine, metallic inclusions, coarse crystalline textures, polished mineral structures, and ultramafic igneous appearance.

A remarkable extraterrestrial artifact representing one of the rarest and most visually distinctive primitive achondrite classes available to collectors today.

Measurements & Weight

• Dimensions: 15 x 18 x 0.3 mm
• Weight: 1.3g

Condition

Please review all photos carefully for overall condition, fractures, oxidation, crystalline structure, and preparation characteristics, as they are considered part of the description. Meteorites are natural extraterrestrial objects and commonly display structural variation, mineralogical textures, and natural weathering features.