large cave Calcite w/ Hyalite Opal (Weaver Coll.)

Item Description

A dramatically sculptural large 360-degree arborescent/floral cave calcite from the Vieja Mine at Santa Eulalia. Two generations of branching calcite comprise this impressive specimen. All of the many first generation stalks are a crystallized sugary chalk-white. The striking second generation buds or branches are very glassy, lustrous and translucent scalenohedrons. Many of these branch, adding even more character. Complete all-around and in great shape, for all crystal density and size. The front has just a few hard-to-see broken tips lower on the piece and the basal periphery wear on the back is out-of-sight. SW UV light features a major SURPRISE! Much of the piece has a thin coating of hyalite opal, that imparts stunning neon-green fluorescence. Ex Gary Weaver Collection. Santa Eulalia is known for such cave calcite specimens and this is a very fine and surprising large combination example. Mass is 1611 grams or 3.5 pounds.