Oriented Martian Meteorite Paired with NWA 7533 – Complete Shield-Shaped Specimen (30 g)

This remarkable 30 g Martian meteorite is a complete, oriented specimen paired with NWA 7533 black beauty, one of the most scientifically important Martian meteorites ever discovered. Unlike thin sections or slices prepared for analytical study, this specimen preserves its entire natural morphology, offering a direct record of atmospheric entry processes.

The meteorite exhibits a distinct shield-like shape, with clear evidence of aerodynamic orientation acquired during its passage through the Martian atmosphere. Subtle flow features and surface sculpting reflect sustained stable flight, making this specimen a rare example of an oriented Martian stone — a phenomenon far less common than in iron meteorites.

Its pairing with NWA 7533 is firmly established through mineralogical and petrographic affinity, linking it to the same regolith breccia assemblage that has revolutionized our understanding of early Martian crustal evolution. As such, this specimen represents not only a flight-shaped object, but also a fragment of ancient Martian surface material, recording billions of years of planetary history.

This meteorite holds exceptional provenance. A field photograph taken at the time of discovery documents the specimen in situ, with a GPS unit visible alongside it, providing direct contextual evidence of its find location. A second photograph shows the specimen on display at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle (Paris), exhibited alongside the historic Martian meteorites Chassigny, Nakhla, and Shergotty.

Although currently exhibited, the specimen remains available, as it is presented under a formal loan agreement with the museum. Such an opportunity — a complete, oriented Martian meteorite with documented field context and museum exhibition history — is extraordinarily rare and places this piece at the intersection of planetary science, institutional heritage, and elite private collecting.