Featured Specimens

contain Olivine, Pyroxene (Bronzite) and 12 -21% free metal

The low-iron (L) chemical group of ordinary chondrites, distinguished by their relatively low siderophile element content, moderate sized chondrules (~0.7 mm), and oxygen isotope compositions that intermediate between H and LL group ordinary chondrites.

Designates chondrites that are characterized by abundant chondrules, low degrees of aqueous alteration, and unequilibrated mineral assemblages. Many of the low-Ca pyroxene grains are monoclinic and exhibit polysynthetic twinning.

Designates chondrites that are characterized by abundant chondrules, and have been metamorphosed under conditions sufficient to homogenize olivine compositions and recrystallize fine-grained matrix. Some of the low-Ca pyroxene grains may be monoclinic and exhibit polysynthetic twinning. Primary igneous chondrule glass is absent.

Designates chondrites that have been metamorphosed under conditions sufficient to homogenize olivine and pyroxene, convert all low-Ca pyroxene to orthopyroxene, cause the growth of various secondary minerals, and blur chondrule outlines.

Designates chondrites that have been metamorphosed under conditions sufficient to homogenize all mineral compositions, convert all low-Ca pyroxene to orthopyroxene, coarsen secondary phases such as feldspar to sizes e50 µm, and obliterate many chondrule outlines; no melting has occurred.

contain about 30% Olivine and less than 7% free metal, mostly in oxidised form

composed of Pyroxene and Plagioclase and were metamorphised at temeratures higher than 600C

Most primitive of chondrites, similar to the pre-solar nebula material, they generally contain 40% olivine, 30% pyroxene some carbon and generally very little free metal.

These don't fit in any group yet.

very little free iron

very rich in iron