Hydroxyapophyllite

Item Description

Somewhat rare, the Apophyllites of the Kalahari are distinctly different than their more famous brethren from the Deccan Plateau, now called Fluorapophyllites. Most recently classified as the species Hydroxyapophyllite-(K), these tannish, pseudo-cubic crystals are tabular in nature, translucent to slightly gemmy, with excellent, pearly luster. Up to 1.8 cm on edge, their shimmery surfaces, along with the sandwich-like appearance (think Los Lamentos Wulfenites), give the crystals a distinct, attractive look. Almost sculptural in the way the crystals link and offset, this aesthetic cluster, likely decades old, well-represents these famous mines. Old material, now seldom for sale.