L Chondrite Collection

Wold meteorite
Watercolour of the Wold meteorite, Yorkshire by Hariet Topham, 1797. Image from Sowerby Collection

Wold Cottage meteorite (detail)
The earliest surviving meteorite seen to land in the UK fell in Wold Cottage, Yorkshire, in 1795. It prompted the first serious investigation into the origin of meteorites

Wold Cottage meteorite
The earliest surviving meteorite seen to land in the UK fell in Wold Cottage, Yorkshire, in 1795. It prompted the first serious investigation into the origin of meteorites

Wold meteorite landing site
Pen and ink sketch showing an obelisk marking the landing site of the Wold Meteorite, Yorkshire, 1812. Image from the Sowerby Collection by Gerrit van Spaendonck

Textures of different chondrule types in the Etihudna (L4) ordinary chondrite (field of view 4mm)

Meteoric Stone, Wold Cottage
One of a series of 5 postcards featuring British meteorites produced and sold by the museum in the 1920s

British Meteorites, leaflet
Leaflet printed to accompany a set of 5 postcards published by the Natural History Museum in 1922

Glatton meteorite
Mr Arthur Pettifor holding the Glatton meteorite which fell in Cambridgeshire on 5th May 1991

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The Wold Cottage meteorite, also known as the L chondrite, is a fascinating piece of extraterrestrial history. This meteorite, which landed at the Wold meteorite landing site, holds intricate details that captivate scientists and enthusiasts alike. One such detail is found in the Wold Cottage meteorite itself. Its composition reveals unique characteristics that distinguish it from other types of meteorites. The textures of different chondrule types within this specimen provide valuable insights into its formation and journey through space. Among these distinctive features is the presence of a barred olivine chondrule. This particular structure showcases concentric rings surrounding an inner core, creating a mesmerizing pattern when observed up close. As we examine this remarkable piece further, we uncover more about its origins and significance. The Wold Cottage meteorite belongs to the L chondrite group—a classification based on its chemical composition—which represents one of the most common types of stony meteorites found on Earth. This celestial visitor has left an indelible mark on our planet's history. Its arrival at the Wold Cottage landing site sparked curiosity among researchers who eagerly studied its properties and sought to unravel its mysteries. Today, this fragment serves as a tangible reminder of our connection to outer space—an ancient relic that traveled vast distances before finding its final resting place here on Earth. It stands as a testament to both our scientific advancements and our enduring fascination with all things beyond our world. Intriguingly beautiful yet scientifically significant, the Wold Cottage meteorite continues to inspire awe and wonder among those fortunate enough to witness its splendor firsthand. As we delve deeper into understanding this extraordinary cosmic artifact, new discoveries await us—each unveiling another layer in humanity's ongoing exploration of the universe around us.