Siderite epimorph after Calcite

Item Description

This is an excellent cabinet size example of these Siderite epimorphs from a small find at the Aggeneys Mine in South Africa brought out at Munich in 2006. These very unusual, barrel-shaped crystals are actually epimorphs, i.e. casts after Calcite crystals, which have been dissolved away leaving a hollow interior. The stout crystals in this striking cluster range between 1 and 6.5cm in size and are mostly complete except at the periphery where a couple of incomplete crystals reveal their hollow interior. It is a fascinating and large example of these epimorphs that retain the scalenohedral shapes of the former Calcite crystals. Some labels indicate there is sphalerite included in the siderite, on these specimens. The epimorphs are a golden bronze color with a satin luster that just scintillates in any incident light. The pieces are unique to this day, completely unlike any other mineral specimen, and remain collectors items. Note that the specimen is hollow, so it is delicate, but it will ship. Valued $2000-plus.