Fluorite imitating Calcite (ex Kay Robertson Collection)

Item Description

This is a really attractive piece of this iconic Fluorites from the Cacilia Mine. I like most people immediately thought it was a Calcite when I first held it in my hands, as the crystals at first glance do not look isometric, but rather have a pseudo-scalenohedral appearance. As a matter of fact, Calcite is not even reported from this mine! Most of the Fluorites from this locality are cubic, and these particular pseud-scalenohedral crystals are special. This piece was found in July of 1961 on the 210 meter level of the Cacilia Mine. The crystals notably sharp and gemmy with complex form, but show the very rare (731) habit, which creates an elongated form. The crystals on this piece shows a light amber color which is very appealing, as are the multiple faces that are silky to almost glassy. The crystals are remarkably gemmy and very attracitve in person. No major damage, only some incomplete areas around the periphery where it detached from the matrix. Ex Kay Robertson Collection (#3148). Kay is a prominent California collector, who specialized in European classics (see the article in the March-April, 2007 Mineralogical Record and the 50+ page article in the German Magazine "Mineralien Velt" November-December 2017). A great German classic from the famous locality. Valued at $1500-$1750.