Quartz pseudomorph after Aegirine

Item Description

The famous Poudrette Quarry at Mont Saint-Hilaire in Quebec, Canada is one of the most prolific mineral localities on Earth. It has literally produced hundreds of mineral species, including many "best in the world" examples, along with some interesting pseudomorphs. This miniature specimen features an attractive pseudomorph of grey colored Quartz pseudomorphing after a single prismatic crystal of Aegirine, free of matrix. If you look closely, you can see there are tiny golden Siderite crystals, sprinkled over the surface. If you collect MSH material, this is a wonderful specimen that would make a nice addition to your collection. Another fascinating piece from this exotic alkaline complex locality. From the collection of William ("Bill") (1927-2006) and Anne (1928-2021) Cook of Cleveland, Ohio (#10,979). This husband and wife duo were actively involved in the mineral world for many decades. Bill was a PhD geologist, and Anne was a mathematician, and they both were very serious mineral collectors. Bill served for many years as adjunct curator of mineralogy at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and Anne was inducted into the Micromounters' Hall of Fame on October 12, 2019. Both Bill and Anne, at various times, served as president both of the Mineralogical Society of Cleveland and of the Micromineral Society of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and Anne was inducted into the mi The rare barium lithium beryllium phosphate Wilancookite was named in their honor in 2015.