Northwest Africa (NWA) XXX unclassified stone chondrite individual meteorite with a thin slice on a glass slide. The individual weighs 37.1 grams and measures 35 mm x 30 mm x 25 mm. The slice measures 20 mm x 15 mm. Thin sections are an indispensable tool in the process of classifying stone meteorites. Only a handful of people have the necessary skills to prepare these very precise samples. A slice from a stone meteorite is cut thin and then ground so thin that it becomes translucent and is then melted on a glass slide. Examination of the slide shows the petrologic composition of the minerals. A special saw and exacting skills are required to prepare thin sections. These intriguing thin sections and window stone pairs are a fascinating look into the process of meteorite classification and identification. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity signed by Geoff Notkin of Aerolite Meteorites Inc. and the TV show Meteorite Men, as well as a specimen identification card.
