Calcite

Item Description

A rarely seen specimen from this historic locality. The Hilton deposit was named after John Hilton who owned the property prior to selling it in 1942 when it was mined for optic grade Calcite (Iceland Spar) that was used in targeting for bomb sights during WWII. Very few specimens are seen from this locality on the market today, and if you collect San Diego County minerals, these are esoteric but historically significant specimens that would make a great addition to your collection. This piece is filled with attractive, sharp, bladed, white crystals of Calcite measuring up to 2.7 cm. The crystals are a bit translucency in areas, they are not opaque. It's rare to see Calcite from any locality in San Diego County, and a showy, aesthetic piece like this is certainly a wonderful change of pace. The piece sits (somewhat precariously) on its own without the aid of a base or clay, but it's a little shaky, so I wouldn't necessarily recommend setting it up that way. No major damage and very attractive from either side.