Details
This complete slice of Allende is wrapped in an edge of fusion crust. Richly evident are chondrules and CAI’s — the oldest matter mankind can touch — along with a galaxy of other inclusions all suspended in the matrix. Modern cutting.
6½x 4½x ⅛in. (165 x 114 x 2mm)

140g.
Special notice
Please note this lot is the property of a consumer. See H1 of the Conditions of Sale.
Brought to you by
James Hyslop
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

Lot Essay

Allende is the most studied meteorite in the world. Hundreds of scientific papers have been written about the meteorite and its components. The sample now offered contains tiny pre-solar grains that formed in the gaseous envelopes around dying stars long before the formation of our solar system4.56 billion years ago. Also present in Allende are prominent white clasts, known as calcium-aluminum inclusions (CAIs) which are amongst the oldest materials in the solar system. Allende fell to Earth on 8 February 1969 at 1:05 AM near Chihuahua, Mexico. Several new minerals have been discovered in Allende including a titanium oxide named panguite after the ancient Chinese god Pan Gu, the creator of the world who separated yin from yang, the earth from the sky.
Post Lot Text
This lot has been imported from outside the EU for sale and placed under the Temporary Admission regime. Import VAT is payable at 5% on the hammer price. VAT at 20% will be added to the buyer’s premium but will not be shown separately on our invoice.

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