[meteorite-list] ad : proto-planetary collision results in re-condensation of interest

[David Weir]

Hello List,

I don't know how many of you haven't heard the leading proposed 
formation history for the bencubbinites, but to me this is probably the 
most fascinating meteorite group (or CR clan) described (for example, 
see Campbell et al., MAPS, August 2005). It is thought by some, with 
compelling evidence, that this material was formed extremely early in 
the solar system when two proto-planets collided to form a vapor plume 
of their components, from which this CB material condensed. These 
collisions must have been common back then, but the bencubbinites 
represent the most pristine evidence of these initial planetary stirrings.

The bencubbinites of subgroup "a", which comprise only Bencubbin, 
Weatherford, Isheyevo, NWA 1814, Fountain Hills, NWA 4025, and the only 
observed fall, Gujba, experienced slightly more thermal metamorphism 
than those of subgroup "b", HaH 237 and QUE 94411, but still represent 
some of the most pristine material from our earliest solar system 
construction. Because I have always found the CB meteorites to be one of 
the most beautiful as well as enigmatic, I have continued to acquire the 
different examples for my collection. The tiny Fountain Hills is best 
left to scientific scrutiny as it appears to represent a transitional 
sample linking the CB chondrites to the CR chondrites (besides I can't 
afford a sample).

I think it can do no harm in promoting the newest member of the CBa 
subgroup which is being sold by Hanno Strufe for the lowest price I have 
seen, at $35-40/g. I had to pay ~$300/g to acquire my first Bencubbin 
specimen, and also most of the others CBa members with the exception of 
the most beautiful meteorite in the world - Gujba. This new one of 
Hanno's is very similar to the type specimen. It cleans up amazingly 
well and the weathering is not a problem at all as I had initially 
feared. Please have a look at my newest acquisition (click the image for 
a striking close-up):

http://meteoritestudies.com/protected_NWA4025.HTM

You can see what Hanno has left to sell at his website:

http://www.strufe.net/special_ben.htm

Thanks Hanno for bringing this amazing new bencubbinite to the community!

note: this is my first ad of the week, thanks for reading.

David