NWA 13307 Meteorite

Ghadames, officially classified as Hammadah al Hamra 346 (HaH 346), is a remarkably fresh L6 ordinary chondrite discovered in Libya after a spectacular 2018 fireball event. Its matte black fusion crust, shallow regmaglypts and pristine preservation make it one of the most attractive recent Sahara meteorites.

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A Possible Recent Meteorite Fall from Libya

Hammadah al Hamra 346, commonly known on the market as Ghadames, is an official L6 ordinary chondrite discovered in Libya in early 2019. According to the Meteoritical Bulletin, the meteorite may be directly associated with a spectacular fireball observed on August 26, 2018 over the Jabal al Gharbi region of Libya. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Hundreds of freshly fusion-crusted stones totaling more than 100 kilograms were recovered across several kilometers in the desert southwest of Ash Shuwayrif. The stones displayed exceptionally fresh surfaces with virtually no weathering or wind abrasion, strongly suggesting a very recent terrestrial age. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Fresh Matte Black Fusion Crust

One of the defining characteristics of Ghadames specimens is their beautiful matte black fusion crust. Many individuals show well-developed shallow regmaglypts and angular blocky shapes, creating highly aesthetic complete specimens. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Where the crust is absent, the meteorite reveals a light gray interior characteristic of fresh L-type ordinary chondrites. Minor oxidation is occasionally visible on exposed metallic grains, but overall preservation remains exceptional for a desert meteorite. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

An Officially Classified L6 Chondrite

Ghadames was officially approved as Hammadah al Hamra 346 in the Meteoritical Bulletin and classified as an L6 ordinary chondrite with shock stage S5 and weathering grade W0. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Petrographic studies revealed a recrystallized texture composed mainly of equilibrated olivine and low-calcium pyroxene, with relict chondrules still preserved in some regions. Shock melt pockets and shocked metallic phases testify to a complex collisional history within its parent asteroid. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

A Highly Collectible Modern Sahara Meteorite

Because of its possible association with a witnessed fireball, exceptional freshness and attractive fusion crust, Ghadames has rapidly become one of the most appreciated modern Sahara ordinary chondrites among collectors.

The combination of scientific interest, aesthetic preservation and historical context makes HaH 346 an excellent meteorite for both advanced collections and educational displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ghadames an official meteorite name?

The official Meteoritical Bulletin name is Hammadah al Hamra 346 (HaH 346), although many collectors and dealers refer to it as Ghadames.

Was Ghadames a witnessed fall?

The meteorite is officially classified as a find, but evidence strongly suggests it may be related to the large fireball observed in Libya on August 26, 2018.

Why is Ghadames considered very fresh?

Most specimens show pristine matte black fusion crust with almost no weathering or wind abrasion, corresponding to a weathering grade of W0.

What type of meteorite is Ghadames?

It is an L6 ordinary chondrite with shock stage S5.