igneous
Martian Meteorite (Black Beauty)
Martian (basaltic breccia) Meteorite, Northwest Africa (NWA) 7034
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Dark grey to black matrix with lighter clasts; Luster: Sub-metallic to dull; Structure: Polymict breccia; Specific gravity: ~2.8-3.0
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Dark grey to black matrix with lighter clasts
- Luster
- Sub-metallic to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Dark grey to black matrix with lighter clasts; Luster: Sub-metallic to dull; Structure: Polymict breccia; Specific gravity: ~2.8-3.0
Formation & geological history
Ejected from the Martian crust by an impact event approximately 2.1 billion years ago (Amazonian/Hesperian period), later landing in the Sahara Desert.
Uses & applications
Scientific research into the history of Mars, high-end private collecting, and museum exhibits.
Geological facts
NWA 7034 contains ten times more water than most other Martian meteorites, suggesting it originated from a time when Mars had standing water or abundant ice.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the presence of a dark fusion crust, high density, and a brecciated interior when cut. Found primarily in arid deserts like the Sahara where lack of vegetation makes dark stones visible.
