Tatahouine Meteorite Tunisia Display Box Specimen

Price :

$75.00

A genuine fragment of the Tatahouine meteorite from Tunisia, housed in a labeled display box with specimen information. A rare and historic collector piece.

In stock

Description

This listing features an authentic Tatahouine meteorite fragment, securely stored inside a clear, labeled display box. Each specimen includes identification noting the meteorite name, fall year, and locality. The box keeps the fragment visible while protecting it—ideal for collectors, educators, and anyone fascinated by planetary materials.

The fragment shows the classic greenish, granular texture characteristic of the Tatahouine fall, offering a clear example of a scientifically important meteorite type.


Geological & Cosmic Background

The Tatahouine meteorite is a diogenite, a type of achondrite linked to the asteroid 4 Vesta, one of the largest bodies in the asteroid belt. Diogenites formed deep within the crust of their parent body through slow cooling, which created coarse grains of orthopyroxene—the primary mineral visible in these specimens.

This meteorite fell on June 27, 1931, near the town of Tataouine in southern Tunisia. Thousands of fragments were recovered, making it one of the most historically documented meteorite falls of the 20th century.


Scientific Classification

Property Value
Meteorite Type Stony achondrite (Diogenite)
Primary Mineral Orthopyroxene
Texture Coarse-grained, pale green crystals
Fall Date June 27, 1931
Locality Tataouine, Tunisia

History & Cultural Context

The Tatahouine fall is renowned in meteoritics for both its scientific significance and its cultural legacy. The meteorite’s name inspired the fictional “Tatooine” in the Star Wars universe, linking this historic fall to modern pop culture.

Diogenites like Tatahouine have played a key role in understanding igneous processes on differentiated asteroids, helping scientists study crust formation beyond Earth.

Due to its well-documented fall and recognizable mineralogy, Tatahouine remains a prized collectible in both historical and scientific meteorite collections.


Why This Makes an Excellent Gift or Collector Piece

  • Authentic, historic fall meteorite

  • Clear display box for presentation, storage, and teaching

  • Recognizable mineral structure ideal for beginners and advanced collectors

  • Educational value for planetary science, geology, and astronomy

  • Gift-ready format with identification included


Aesthetic & Collector Evaluation

Tatahouine’s pale green, crystalline texture sets it apart from more common meteorites. The coarse grains are visible even at small specimen sizes, making it an appealing display piece. The accompanying box ensures the meteorite remains protected and ready for presentation.


Care & Handling

Keep the specimen inside the display box to preserve surface texture. Avoid moisture and skin oils. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.

Additional information

Weight 3 oz
Dimensions 2.25 × .50 × .50 in