On June 27, 2025, scientists released new information about very old rocks found in the Nuvvuagittuq Greenstone Belt in northern Quebec, Canada. These rocks, located near Hudson Bay, have been studied for many years. In the recent study, researchers said one rock sample may be about 4.16 billion years old. This makes it possibly one of the oldest rocks on Earth. Before this, some studies said the rocks were 4.3 billion or 3.8 billion years old. The numbers were different because scientists used different methods. This new study used two methods, and both gave the same answer. That made the results more credible and gave more legitimacy to the age claim. This finding is significant for understanding Earth’s early history and may influence future studies in geology.

The Earth was formed around 4.5 billion years ago, but many early rocks were destroyed by tectonic movement. Old rocks are now very hard to find. Some other ancient rocks can be found in the Acasta Gneiss Complex, also in Canada. However, these new samples could be even older. Studying these rocks can help scientists learn how Earth’s surface changed and how life started. One expert described the rocks as very valuable. The area is on Inukjuak tribal land, and leaders have stopped sample-taking due to damage in past visits. Some rocks were even sold online. A new park is being planned to stop exploitation, help with preservation, and protect the land for future study. This plan will also show respect for local culture and ensure that scientific work follows proper rules. Local leaders want the site to be a protected place for learning and research.