Rocks From Space Picture of the Day May 14, 2007
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1.471 kg sculpted Taza meteorite. Synonym Northwest Africa 859, iron,
plessitic octahedrite. Unlike most Taza which display rather compact shapes
this mass is dramatically sculpted and covered with distinct regmaglypts on
all surfaces. The cut surface measuring 8 cm shows a kamacite vein
intersected by parallel plessite needles that flows into a troilite
inclusion. Tool marks on this particular mass indicating the use as a hammer
or club are visible on two protruding edges opposite of each other. A third
worked protrusion bears marks that indicate the mounting to a shank. Judged
by the oxidation patina on the meteorite and tool marks the period of use
occurred in pre-islamic times.
Photo courtesy of: Dr. Svend Buhl and Andi Gren www.niger-meteorite-recon.de
Author & editor: Michael Johnson (SPACEROCKSINC.com)
