Catapleiite pseudomorph after Fluorite (ex Dr. Wouter van Tichelen Collection)

Item Description

The Poudrette Quarry at Mont Saint-Hilaire in Québec, Canada is one of the world's most magnificent mineral localities. As of the time of this posting, 433 different mineral species have been found at the Poudrette Quarry (Demix Quarry), and it's also the type locality for 71 of those species. Pseudomorphs are well-known from this locale, and this is one of the more interesting examples that we've had to offer from MSH. This toenail sized piece hosts a 1.3 cm pseudomorph of what began as a dodecahedral crystal of Fluorite that has been replaced by brown-tan colored Catapleiite. Associated white translucent bladed Albite and a black thin prismatic crystal of Manganoneptunite can be seen for a nice contrast of color. I can't remember seeing another quite like this from MSH, so if you collect specimens from this world-class locality, don't pass up the chance to get your hands on this unique and eye-catching piece. From the prestigious pseudomorph collection of Dr. Wouter van Tichelen of Belgium.