NWA 13643 CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite
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Discover our collection of NWA 13643 CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite, an exceptionally primitive meteorite that preserves some of the earliest material formed during the birth of our Solar System over 4.56 billion years ago.
Officially recognised by the Meteoritical Society, Northwest Africa (NWA) 13643 was purchased from a meteorite dealer in Morocco during 2020 and approved in 2021. It is classified as a CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite, one of the most scientifically important meteorite groups due to its abundance of hydrated minerals, fine-grained matrix and primitive Solar System material. The official total known weight is just 170 grams, making NWA 13643 an exceptionally scarce classified meteorite.
Unlike ordinary chondrites, CM (Mighei-type) carbonaceous chondrites are rich in carbon-bearing compounds and hydrated minerals that formed through interactions with liquid water on their parent asteroid billions of years ago. These meteorites provide valuable evidence for the early chemical evolution of the Solar System and are extensively studied for the clues they preserve about the ingredients available during planetary formation.
Petrographic examination shows that NWA 13643 is a brecciated carbonaceous chondrite containing small chondrules, altered chondrule pseudomorphs, mineral fragments and rare calcium-aluminium-rich inclusions (CAIs), all enclosed within a fine-grained, iron-rich matrix. Many components are surrounded by delicate dust rims, while the matrix contains abundant iron sulphides, rare calcium carbonates and hydrated phyllosilicate minerals formed through ancient aqueous alteration.
With a Shock Stage of S1 and low weathering, NWA 13643 remains exceptionally well preserved, retaining delicate mineralogical features that make CM2 meteorites among the most valuable research specimens available today.
Our collection showcases authentic NWA 13643 specimens selected for their provenance, recognised classification and scientific significance.
As our collection continues to grow, additional NWA 13643 specimens and preparations will be added.
Official Classification
| Property | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Northwest Africa 13643 |
| Abbreviation | NWA 13643 |
| Meteorite Type | Stony Meteorite |
| Classification | CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite |
| Chondrite Group | Carbonaceous Chondrite |
| Find or Fall | Find |
| Place of Purchase | Morocco |
| Year Purchased | 2020 |
| Year Approved | 2021 |
| Total Known Weight | 170g |
| Shock Stage | S1 |
| Weathering Grade | Low |
| Official Database | Meteoritical Bulletin Database |
Why Collect NWA 13643?
- Officially classified CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite.
- Exceptionally low total known weight of only 170 grams.
- Rich in hydrated minerals formed through ancient water alteration.
- Contains primitive chondrules, CAIs and fine-grained matrix.
- One of the most scientifically important meteorite groups.
- An exceptional addition to advanced meteorite and planetary science collections.
Featured Specimens
Our collection may include:
- Raw Specimens
- Polished Slices
- End Cuts
- Collector Specimens
- Research Quality Specimens
- Museum Display Specimens
As our collection grows, additional NWA 13643 specimens and preparations will become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NWA 13643?
NWA 13643 is an officially recognised CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite purchased in Morocco during 2020 and approved by the Meteoritical Society in 2021.
What is a CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite?
CM2 meteorites are primitive carbon-rich meteorites containing hydrated minerals, fine-grained matrix and ancient Solar System material that has experienced limited aqueous alteration.
Why is NWA 13643 important?
Its exceptionally low total known weight of just 170 grams, combined with its excellent preservation and primitive mineralogy, makes it scientifically significant and highly collectable.
What are CAIs?
Calcium-aluminium-rich inclusions (CAIs) are among the oldest solid materials formed in the Solar System, predating the formation of planets and many meteorites.
Is every specimen unique?
Yes. Every NWA 13643 specimen varies naturally in shape, texture, mineral distribution and weathering, making each piece completely unique.
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References
- Meteoritical Bulletin Database – Northwest Africa 13643.
- Gattacceca et al. (2022). The Meteoritical Bulletin No. 110.
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