L type ordinary chondrites are the second most common group of meteorites, accounting for approximately 35% of all those cataloged, and 40% of the ordinary chondrites. The name comes from their relatively low iron abundance, w/respect to the H chondrites, which are about 20–25% iron by weight. Historically, L chondrites have been named hypersthene chondrites or olivine hypersthene chondrites (as w/this specimen) for the dominant minerals, but these terms are now obsolete. Many of the L chondrite meteorites may have their origin in the Ordovician meteor event. This event has been radioisotope dated to roughly 470 million years ago. Compared to other chondrites, a large proportion of the L chondrites have been heavily shocked, meaning that the parent body was catastrophically disrupted by a large impact. The parent body/bodies for this group are not known, but plausible suggestions include the 433 Eros and 8 Flora asteroids, or the Flora family as a whole. Offered here is a 7.75x10-5/8x.25" thick L chondrite meteorite slice that weighs 716.70 grams and has had sides cut and polished to a smooth finish, revealing the meteorites high nickel-iron content, which appear as reflective specks throughout the specimen. This slice is the largest from a 59 lb. meteorite found in Seagrave, TX. in 1989.
Edges of slice are covered w/a fusion crust covering the entirety of the meteorite due to the immense heat generated by entry into the atmosphere. Wonderful display, allowing for viewing meteorite's mineral make-up. From the Robert M. Overstreet Collection and comes with COA.