Tephroite - rare xls with Rhodochrosite

Item Description

A member of the Olivine group, this mineral is not a very common occurrence at Wessels (or from anywhere, and also rarely seen at Franklin and Langban). The brown crystals here are prismatic in habit and have very good luster. The Tephroite from this locality is considered by many to be best of species. The crystals here range up to about 6 mm in length, and may reach 3mm across in width for the larger crystals. They are terminated, and exposed crystals show just how gemmy and glassy the Tephroites are internally. These Tephroites are accented by distinct balls of pink Rhodochrosite about 1 mm in size. An important, and quality, specimen of a very rare crystallized species. Charlie valued pieces like this at $500. They are among the best of species material, for isolation and form.