Calcite - Mariposa twin (classic old style)

Item Description

"Mariposa" or butterfly calcite is probably the best known calcite specimen material of the many varietals from famed Santa Eulalia mine (dating to the 1950s-1960s). The sculptural and impressive two-sided small cabinet has two-staged growth. The large early scalenohedrons, commonly doubly terminated twins, have interesting platy brownish-black iron oxide coatings, adding contrast. Second stage, highly lustrous, translucent, yellow-orange rhombohedrons are a dramatic complement and contrast to both sides. The early stage calcite has striking neon-orange SW UV fluorescence, due to significant manganese content and produces the classic patterns seen in the basal fluorescent photo! These have been intermittently available since the 1950s. See the extensive and excellent 2018 Santa Eulalia Mineralogical Record Mexico Special Issue VIII, Vol. 49, No. 1. Ex De Natura (Les Presmyk) dealer stock. Classic and excellent calcite from the old days from the well-known Potosi Mine. An outstanding example, with STUNNING fluorescent patterns that make them famous to multiple groups of mineral collectors. We see these come back on the market only rarely today!