igneous
Lunar Breccia Meteorite
Lunar Feldspathic Breccia
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: dark grey to black matrix with lighter grey/white/tan clasts. Luster: dull to vitreous. Structure: clastic/fragmental. Cleavage: irregular. Specific gravity: approx 2.9-3.1.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- dark grey to black matrix with lighter grey/white/tan clasts
- Luster
- dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: dark grey to black matrix with lighter grey/white/tan clasts. Luster: dull to vitreous. Structure: clastic/fragmental. Cleavage: irregular. Specific gravity: approx 2.9-3.1.
Formation & geological history
Formed on the Moon when meteoroid impacts smashed and melted lunar crustal rocks, which then fused back together. These rocks are usually billions of years old and were ejected from the lunar surface into space via later impacts before landing on Earth.
Uses & applications
Scientific research (planetary geology), high-end meteorite collecting, and rare jewelry/luxury goods.
Geological facts
Lunar meteorites are rarer than gold or diamonds. Until the late 20th century, the only known lunar samples were those returned by the Apollo missions; however, we now identify lunar meteorites through chemical and isotopic 'fingerprints' that match Apollo samples.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by presence of a fusion crust (though often eroded), lack of spherical chondrules found in other meteorites, and chemical analysis showing high calcium/aluminum ratios. Often found in hot deserts like the Sahara or cold deserts like Antarctica.
