NWA 16734 Ungrouped Pallasite Meteorite Specimen Rare Olivine Iron Meteorite

An authentic specimen of the officially classified Northwest Africa 16734 (NWA 16734) meteorite, an exceptionally rare ungrouped pallasite approved in Meteoritical Bulletin 114 in 2025. This remarkable meteorite represents one of only a very small number of officially recognized ungrouped pallasites known to science.

Purchased in 2024 near Tindouf, Algeria, NWA 16734 is especially significant because its mineralogy and isotopic composition place it outside the major known pallasite groups, including both the Main Group and Eagle Station groups. Official reports further note that it is distinct from all previously registered ungrouped pallasites as well.

Official Classification

• Name: Northwest Africa 16734 (NWA 16734)
• Country: Northwest Africa
• Purchased: 2024
• Classification: Pallasite, Ungrouped
• Weathering Grade: Low
• Total Known Weight: 186.1 grams
• Official Publication: Meteoritical Bulletin 114

Physical Characteristics

Official reports describe: multiple small dark stones, subrounded olivine crystals, metallic network structure, roughly equal olivine and metal abundance, low weathering state, and highly unusual isotopic composition.

Scientific Composition

Scientific analysis identified: olivine, nickel-iron metal, chromite, Ca-phosphate, troilite, and spinel inclusions. The meteorite contains cm-sized olivine crystals, metallic matrix/network structure, aligned mineral inclusions within olivine, accessory chromite grains, and complex metal-sulfide assemblages.

Pallasites are among the most visually spectacular meteorites in existence because they combine translucent olivine crystals suspended within extraterrestrial nickel-iron metal.

Why NWA 16734 Is Exceptionally Important

• Officially classified as ungrouped — outside all known major pallasite groups
• Differs from both Main Group and Eagle Station pallasites
• Distinct from all previously registered ungrouped pallasites
• Total known mass of only 186.1 grams — extremely limited
• Represents exceptionally rare planetary differentiation material
• Among the rarest pallasite classifications known to science

Depending on preparation, specimens may display: translucent olivine crystals, metallic nickel-iron network, chromite inclusions, etched metal structure, polished gem-like olivine windows, and dramatic pallasitic textures.

Ideal For

• Pallasite collectors
• Advanced meteorite collections
• Rare classification specialists
• Planetary science collections
• Museum and educational displays
• Collectors seeking elite-level meteorites

A remarkable extraterrestrial artifact representing one of the rarest officially classified pallasite meteorites available to collectors today.

Measurements & Weight

• Dimensions: 20 x 18 x 0.2 mm
• Weight: 2.5g

Condition

Please review all photos carefully for overall condition, oxidation, fractures, crystal structure, etching, and preparation characteristics, as they are considered part of the description. Pallasites are natural extraterrestrial objects and commonly display oxidation, fracturing, crystal variation, and natural structural features.