Tatahouine Diogenite Stony Meteorite Achondrites Specimen Fell June 24, 1931 Display
Location: Tunisia
Weight: 0.4 Ounces (Display)
Dimensions: 2.3 Inches Long, 1.5 Inches Wide, 0.6 Inches Thick (Display)
Comes with a Free Display Case.
The item pictured is the one you will receive.
Tatahouine Diogenite is an achondrite meteorite, a type of stony meteorite that has undergone differentiation and crystallization similar to processes that occur in planetary bodies. Diogenites are believed to have originated from asteroid 4 Vesta, one of the largest objects in the asteroid belt. Studying this meteorite provides valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the early solar system, helping scientists understand how planetary bodies develop layered structures and how materials are distributed throughout space.
Diogenites are primarily composed of orthopyroxene, a mineral that is rich in iron and magnesium. The presence of this mineral gives diogenites their characteristic dark color and dense structure. In addition to orthopyroxene, diogenites may contain other minerals such as olivine, plagioclase, and various metallic phases. The specific mineralogical composition can vary among individual specimens, reflecting different cooling histories or parent body processes.
The texture of diogenites is typically coarse-grained due to slow cooling rates during their formation. This slow cooling allows for the growth of larger crystals compared to other types of meteorites. Some diogenites exhibit a cumulate texture, indicating that they formed from the accumulation of crystals settling out from a molten state.
Discover the extraordinary story locked within this Tatahouine diogenite, a meteorite that fell to Earth nearly a century ago, carrying secrets from Vesta's violent past. Forged in the asteroid's differentiated magma chambers, this orthopyroxene-rich specimen crystallized as heavy minerals sank through molten rock, only to be violently ejected into space by ancient impacts. Today, it serves as a tangible bridge to the early solar system, revealing how planetary bodies separate into distinct layers and evolve. Classified within the prestigious HED meteorite group, the Tatahouine diogenite stands apart through its unique mineralogy and composition, making it invaluable for understanding our cosmic origins. Whether you're a serious collector or passionate researcher, this authentic specimen offers unparalleled insight into the processes that shaped our planetary neighborhood billions of years ago.
