Hydroxyapophyllite on Prehnite (ex. Roebling & Smithsonian!)

Item Description

From the distinguished and historic Fairfax Quarry in Virginia, this is a very large plate covered with a solid layer of green Prehnite. Sprinkled gently upon the surface are two habits of Hydroxyapophyllite-(K): one habit being tabular, square crystals with a terrific, pearlescent luster; and the other being thicker, white tabular crystals to 2 cm that grow in almost a rosette-like cluster. Fairfax is known for this combination of minerals and they can be highly sought-after. Specimens like this were treasured among the early American mineral collectors and were considered the finest of species at the time. Adding to the allure is the incredible provenance of this large cabinet specimen. It was purchased by the National Museum of Natural History with endowment money from the Washington A. ROEBLING collection (1837-1926, the designer of the Brooklyn Bridge!). For more on the Roebling collection: https://mineralogicalrecord.com/labels.asp?colid=614. Provenance aside, this is a great historic specimen AND a display quality.