Calcite (GEM ''wings'') on Fluorite (ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection)

Item Description

The famous Xianghuapu Mine in the Xianghualing Sn-polymetallic ore field is best known for producing superb gemmy green cubic Fluorite crystals, and the only other mineral you see associated with this material typically is Calcite. With that said, this is one of the BEST QUALITY Calcites I've seen from this famous mine featuring supreme quality, GEM crystallized "wings" of compressed rhombic Calcite sitting atop minor cubic (with dodecahedral modifications) crystals of transparent soft green colored Fluorite. The largest Calcite measures 5.8 cm across. These aren't quite what I could call "optic grade" Calcites, but they are transparent when backlit, and they internal clarity is amplified by the fantastic striated geometric faces that cover both sides of the crystals. The piece is not 100% damage free, as there are a few tiny imperfections, but it's largely unblemished and displays wonderfully on the free accompanying acrylic base. If you collect Chinese minerals, worldwide Calcites, or just superb crystallized examples of well-known mineral species, do NOT pass this one up, as it's one of the most impressive, eye-catching and top quality examples of Calcite we have ever had to offer from Xianghuapu. Priced at $5,000 in our inventory. Ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection. Along with amassing one of the finest private mineral collections in the world, Steve is a renowned mathematician. His accomplishments include being awarded the Fields Medal in 1966 along with being the awarded the Wolf Prize in mathematics in 2007. You can read Steve's bio on the Mineralogical Record website ( https://mineralogicalrecord.co... ) or on Wikipedia.