Calcite

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Known as 'Sand Calcite' this bizarre form of Calcite crystals where most of the calcium carbonate has been replaced by grains of Quartz sand (silicon dioxide) is unique to Fontainebleau to the south of Paris at Seine-et-Marne, Ile-de-France, France. Known for centuries, wonderful crystal groupings are known in many major late 18th and early 19th century European collections. This miniature specimen is admittedly smaller than most, but it is its perfection which makes it so special. The largest individual rhombic crystal extends to 4.1 cm in length and is joined to another at 3.7 cm in length with a smaller twin protruding out from its side. Ex Martin Kershaw Collection, no. 518.