Andalusite var. Chiastolite (rare CA locale!) Trimingham Coll.

Item Description

Mineral specimens of any variety from this old copper mining district are RARE. This is a very fine, large, 6.8 cm, slightly tapered, hexagonal crystal of andalusite variety chiastolite, which is andalusite containng cross-shaped inclusions of carbon. The outer rind and mica schist matrix are oxidized. The sawed end shows the interesting carbon inclusion patterns. These crystals are often sectioned, polished and used as amulets, sometimes chiastolite is cut into cabochons (GEMDAT). Undoubtably old material, but no proof. Ex Bob Trimingham Collection. A MUST for the California or species collector.