Calcite (fl) - two generations

Item Description

Two generations of rhomb-shaped Calcites comprise this large miniature from the well-known mines at Charcas. Charcas is renowned for Calcite crystals with a 'pokerchip' habit, so such sharp rhombs, the largest being 3.8 cm, are unusual for the location. The crystals are gemmier than they appear, have good luster, and they have very distinct preferential inclusions of grey Goethite. The Goethite creates dramatically different looks to this large miniature, depending on the viewing angle. This is equally true for the rich orange fluorescenece, which is really only visible from the direction opposite the Goethite. There is contacting on a few sides where the specimen was attached, and a small amount of edgewear, but the overall appearance and aesthetics are quite good and very interesting. #7313 in Kay's collection, she acquired this from Lidstrom's in 1974.