NWA 5437 is the provisional number of the first meteorite I have ever gotten classified. It is classified as a LL3.5 ordinary chondrite.
The LL in the classification stands for low-iron and low metal. These type of meteorites typically have fairly large chondrules. This type of classification is rare and the meteorite also has a low total known weight, adding to the overall rareness of this fall.
While cutting a set of pieces today, I came across two nice specimens. The first one illustrates the beautiful chondrules that are contained in this meteorite.
In the second item, I was pleasantly surprised to see a matrix that went from grey to brown. The grey matrix is usually associated with meteorites that are not very weathered. As a result, less oxidation has occurred within the meteorite. A brown matrix is indicative of slightly more weathering. In the pic below, the transition is pretty clean. Perhaps part of this meteorite was buried or protected in some way? Since I did not find this item in situ, I can only guess. In any case, I am certainly pleased with the result of the sawing and preparation. If I had cut this item in a different way, I may have never come across this part of the matrix. This is definitely a case of being more lucky than skilled!
That is some nice looking rocks. Did you weigh the pieces before and after cutting to determine loss %?
Wait until you cut one and find a black inclusion with chondrules scattered throughout.
Never a dull moment with these pieces. Who knew such beauty lie just below the surface of a burnt rock?