Fluorapophyllite ex Kidwell (classic old USA loc.)

Item Description

Fluorapophyllites from the old iron mines in Cornwall, Pennsylvania are a rare thing, especially in a piece this aesthetic and complete! Two spherical aggregates of medium green Fluorapophyllite crystals are stacked one upon the other with their outwardly reflecting flat terminations glistening all around like disco balls. Individual terminal faces that surround the spheres average about 1 cm across and individual crystals are still somewhat distinct. The green color of the Fluorapophyllite may be imparted by a Chlorite Group mineral included during growth. The radial structure of the Fluorapophyllite is evident on the backside of the piece where a third, partial sphere is present. Tiny, less than 0.2 mm, Calcite crystals are sprinkled all over the piece for a nice added touch. These are extremely rare USA classics, and this is a choice miniature acquired in 1980. From the diverse and historic collection of one of the great field collectors and mineralogists of mid-1900s Texas, Albert Kidwell of Houston (1919-2008), after whom the mineral Kidwellite is named.