Variscite (ex Al Kidwell Collection)

Item Description

I would say it's safe to assume that the most popular phosphate species from Arkansas is Wavellite, and Variscite is possibly a close second. While the Variscite from Utah is typically more popular on the market, I would make the argument that the Arkansas material doesn't get enough credit for its quality or color. Most of the Utah Variscites are massive / uncrystallized, and while the color is similar, the Arkansas is micro-crystallized / crystalline, so it's a bit more "refined" in terms of quality. This piece features a beautiful green coverage of sparkling, drusy, crystalline Variscite on host rock matrix. A couple contacted radiating groups of Wavellite can be seen on the piece as well. A beautiful example of this classic and eye-catching material. From the worldwide mineral collection of Albert Lewis Kidwell (January 1, 1919 - August 16, 2008). Al was a well-known mineral collector and research geologist with Carter Oil Company and later Exxon Oil Company in Houston, Texas. The phosphate species Kidwellite was named in his honor in 1974.