large Calcite (rare 1991 find)

Item Description

Sculptural and RARE large multi-generational dogtooth calcite crystal from a limited June, 1991 find at this Precambrian marble quarry. Two striking colorless, gemmy, complex rhombohedral calcite scepters crown the dogtooth crystals, which are dramatically enhanced by the sparkling, small, stepped-growth, water-clear calcite rhombs on the prism faces. An underlying layer of oxide-tinted calcite adds much color and character. The initial scalenohedrons are multiply layered translucent gray to off-white calcite. The large dogtooth is pristine, with the contacting lower on back being out-of-sight. Calcite is the primary species from this less well-known Maryland quarry. Collected by Fred Parker, Ex Chet Lemanski Collection No. 0995 and acquired from Fred in April, 1992. Sceptered calcites from here are among the rarest and most desirable calcite varietals from the quarry and this is an outstanding large example. This calcite resembles old USA classics from the extinct lead-zinc mines of Shullsburg, Wisconsin and are enhanced by the oxide tinting.