Chiastolite (Andalusite) (ex Allen Heyl Collection)

Item Description

A classic specimen of the well known "Chiastolite" - a variety of Andalusite - from Vermont. The label states that it is from "Chester" Vermont, but I cannot find any locality listed with this name for Chiastolite, but through some investigating, Chester is a town in Windsor County, and Andalusite is reported from Windsor County, so this is the locality I'm choosing. "Chiastolites" are essentially crystals of Andalusite containg cross-shaped inclusions of carbon, and like this piece are often sliced and polished to show the crystal form better. If you collect east coast classics, or if you've always wanted a piece of this attractive and relatively hard to find material, don't miss out on this one. From the collection of Allen Heyl, a well-known geologist from Colorado and the namesake for the species Aheylite.