Fluorite on Quartz

Item Description

Without question, this is one of the more unique specimens I have seen from Erongo, or anywhere else for that matter. On first glance, you would think that this is pseudomorphed after Schorl based on the overall shape, but I do not think that is the case. The white lines are actually thin, needle-like straws. Possibly a carbonate such as Calcite or a silicate like Quartz. Definitely you get the feeling of a cave-like formation, even if on a very small scale. Coating the straws are hundreds of tiny, mm-size Fluorite cubes that are dominantly brown, some are purple, and they are gemmy in part or whole. The Fluorites have a silky luster. I am amazed that something that looks and feels so delicate has survived, but it's a good thing it did. A really interesting piece, overall!