• Type: Stony meteorite / ordinary chondrite L4
• Location: Arizona, USA
• Weight: 1.1g
• Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 2 mm
• Year of discovery: 1995
• Known total weight: 61 kg
• Surface treatment: Polished slice on one side
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Oro Basin Meteorite – L4 Chondrite from Arizona Oro Basin is a common chondrite of type L4, meaning it contains a relatively low amount of metallic iron and has undergone a moderate degree of thermal metamorphism. It is a classic American meteorite with a well-documented impact field that is among the most extensive on Earth. Discovery The meteorite was discovered in 1995 in Mohave County, Arizona, in an area popular with Oro prospectors. The discovery was made by amateur prospector and professor Jim Kriegh while searching for Oro using metal detectors in dry streambeds. As of November 1997, 1484 fragments had been found over an area of about 130 km², with a total mass of 61 kg. The largest piece weighs 1.52 kg. Age According to geological estimates, Oro Basin has a very long terrestrial age, likely falling during the last Ice Age (around 15,000 years ago). Condition and Appearance The fragments are often significantly weathered, with patina, but frequently preserve traces of fusion crust. Cut sections reveal gray to black silicate inclusions with metallic Fe-Ni, and clearly visible chondrules.