Quartz ("Faden") (rare matrix piece)

Item Description

Quartz is arguably the most diverse mineral species in the world. It occurs in a wide range of habit, colors and styles from thousands of world localities. It is certainly is one of the most well-known, admired and varied species out there. Experienced collectors will know that some of the most distinctive Quartz specimens are the famous "Faden" groups found in Alpine and "Alpine"-type deposits. The word "Faden" is German for string, and these specimens get their name for the string or thread like inclusions that float inside the crystals. I've been told that sometimes the "Fadens" inside these crystals are actually scars from healed internal stress fractures as the crystals were pulled ever so slightly underground during formation. This piece is not only a fine quality classic "Faden" Quartz from Pakistan, but the significance lies in the fact that there are multiple "Faden" groups on MATRIX which is quite rare in my experience with this material! The largest individual group measures 4.3 cm long. You can see there are several gemmy groups of colorless prismatic Quartz crystals which exhibit very striking "Fadens" that run through or across the crystals creating a highly three-dimensional and eye-catching display specimen. I have to stress that it's not common to find showy MATRIX specimens with multiple "Fadens" like this from Pakistan. Excellent condition overall, with very little damage. Hard to photograph, and certainly best viewed in person. Something like this would be highly prized if it was found in the European Alps. In recent years, it appears that these Pakistani pieces are disappearing from the market, and it's a shame because I think they are underappreciated for what they are. Priced in the inventory at $1,250 for the quality, size and the rare matrix. Enjoy.