ITQIY

ITQIY is one of the most unusual and texturally distinctive meteorites ever documented. From its discovery to its evolving scientific interpretation, this meteorite has consistently challenged conventional classification frameworks and expanded our understanding of enstatite-rich planetary materials.

ITQIY was personally discovered by me during meteorite fieldwork in the desert, where its atypical appearance immediately set it apart from known meteorite groups. Subsequent analyses confirmed that this specimen did not correspond to any established class, leading to its initial designation as a unique ungrouped enstatite meteorite.

Further petrographic and compositional studies later refined its classification to EH7 anomalous, reflecting an exceptionally high degree of thermal metamorphism combined with a texture not observed in typical enstatite chondrites. This evolution in classification underscores both the complexity of ITQIY and its importance as a reference specimen for understanding extreme metamorphic processes in reduced planetary environments.

One of the most striking characteristics of ITQIY is its remarkable internal texture. Polished sections reveal a tightly interlocked mosaic of enstatite grains with interstitial metal, producing an optical effect that is immediately apparent when the specimen is viewed under changing light angles. This dynamic interaction with light gives ITQIY a visual depth and complexity that cannot be fully captured in photographs.

For this reason, ITQIY is frequently cited by experienced collectors as one of their favorite meteorites, not because of mass or rarity alone, but because of the profoundly surprising sensory experience it offers when examined in hand. The texture reveals itself progressively, rewarding close observation in a way that few meteorites can.

As both a scientifically significant specimen and a meteorite with a uniquely engaging physical presence, ITQIY occupies a singular position at the intersection of planetary science, petrology, and advanced private collecting.

Showing 1-2 of 2 item(s)

ITQIY Meteorite Slice 14.80 g with Fusion Crust

Available

Home

ITQIY – Partial Slice with Fusion Crust | 14.80 g

$1,776.00

Name: ITQIY Observed fall: No Provenance: Sahara Desert Classification: Classified as an ungrouped enstatite-rich meteorite, then later as an EH7-anom Mass:14.8 grams, slice with fusion crust Form: Unique coarse-grained, metal-rich enstatite meteorite Link to publication Meteoritical Bulletin: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/metbull.cfm?code=12058

ITQIY Meteorite – Unique Ungrouped Main Mass End Cut (658 g)

ITQIY Meteorite – Unique Ungrouped Main Mass End Cut (658 g) 2

Home

ITQIY Main Mass - 658 g

Name: ITQIY Observed fall: No Provenance: Sahara Desert Classification: Classified as an ungrouped enstatite-rich meteorite, then later as an EH7-anom Mass: 658 grams, main mass Form: Unique coarse-grained, metal-rich enstatite meteorite Link to publication Meteoritical Bulletin: https://www.lpi.usra.edu/meteor/metbull.cfm?code=12058 Price on request

View

ITQIY serves as a fixed reference point within enstatite-rich meteorite studies rather than part of a broader population.

The classification of ITQIY reflects the evolving nature of meteoritics, where unusual specimens can drive refinement of existing categories. Its designation as EH7 anomalous highlights both its enstatite-dominated mineralogy and the exceptional degree of metamorphism recorded in its texture.

Because the defining characteristics of ITQIY are strongly linked to its three-dimensional structure and light response, direct examination is essential for full appreciation. This makes ITQIY particularly valued in institutional collections, teaching collections, and advanced private holdings where physical access to the specimen is possible.