Nakhlites – Martian Meteorites

Nakhlites are a rare group of Martian meteorites formed from volcanic rocks and later altered by water on Mars.

They provide unique insights into both igneous processes and water-related alteration on the Martian surface, making them essential for understanding the planet’s geological history.

Showing 1-2 of 2 item(s)

Nakhlites – Martian Meteorites

Nakhlite NWA 998 / 0.59g - Sold

NWA 998 (Mars meteorite, SNC, Nakhlite) Fragment Weight: 0.590g Size: 8 x 7 x 6 mm

View

Nakhlite Meteorite 25.02 g | Complete Martian Stone with Crust

Nakhlite Meteorite 25.02 g | Complete Martian Stone with Crust 2

Available

Home

Martian Nakhlite Meteorite – Complete Individual with Fusion Crust – 25.02 g

$25,000.00

A complete Martian nakhlite meteorite weighing 25.02 g, preserving its fresh black fusion crust. A rare individual stone, analyzed and confirmed, discovered as a single isolated find. Importante notice! A small portion of the meteorite was cut and used for classification, allowing it to be formally identified as a nakhlite. The remaining mass retains its...

A Distinct Group of Martian Meteorites

Nakhlites are a small and distinct group of Martian meteorites, separate from shergottites, chassignites, and regolith breccias. They are named after the historic meteorite Nakhla, which fell in Egypt in 1911.

This group represents a specific type of Martian rock formed under particular geological conditions, making it essential for understanding the diversity of the Martian crust.

Volcanic Origin

Nakhlites are igneous rocks, formed from magma on Mars. They are generally interpreted as having crystallized in lava flows or shallow intrusive environments.

Their mineralogy is dominated by clinopyroxene, often accompanied by olivine and other minor phases, reflecting a relatively slow cooling history compared to other Martian meteorites.

Evidence of Water Alteration

One of the defining characteristics of nakhlites is the presence of secondary minerals formed through interaction with liquid water. These alteration features developed on Mars long before the meteorites were ejected into space.

This makes nakhlites particularly important for the study of past water activity on Mars and the environmental conditions that existed on the planet.

A Snapshot of Martian Geological Processes

Nakhlites are unique in that they record both:

Magmatic processes related to volcanic activity
Hydrothermal or aqueous processes linked to water circulation

This dual signature makes them especially valuable for reconstructing the geological evolution of Mars.

Known Nakhlite Meteorites

The nakhlite group includes several well-known meteorites such as:

Nakhla (Egypt, 1911)
Lafayette
Governador Valadares
NWA nakhlites discovered in recent decades

Each specimen contributes to a broader understanding of this rare group and its role in Martian geology.

Collector Interest

Nakhlites are highly sought after due to their rarity and scientific significance. They offer a different perspective from other Martian meteorites by combining volcanic origin with evidence of water alteration.

For collectors, they represent an essential component of a complete Martian meteorite collection.

Available Nakhlite Specimens

The specimens presented in this category include selected nakhlite material, offering access to this rare and scientifically important group of Martian meteorites.

FAQ

What are nakhlites?

Nakhlites are a rare group of Martian meteorites formed from volcanic rocks and altered by water on Mars.

Why are nakhlites important?

They provide evidence of both volcanic activity and water-related processes on Mars.

What is the most famous nakhlite?

Nakhla, which fell in Egypt in 1911, is the most well-known nakhlite.

Are nakhlites rare?

Yes, they are among the less common Martian meteorites.

What makes nakhlites different?

They uniquely combine igneous origin with signs of aqueous alteration, unlike many other Martian meteorites.