Name: Kaolinite ps. after Orthoclase Feldspar (Carlsbad Twinned)
Brand: The Arkenstone
Price: 3000 USD
Availability: InStock

Kaolinite ps. after Orthoclase Feldspar (Carlsbad Twinned)

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From St. Austell in the historic Cornwall district, this 'floater' is a wonderful example of the intriguing Carlsbad-twinned orthoclase crystals which have been pseudomorphed by kaolinite. Complete all around, and in good condition with just a minor amount of roughness, the pseudo has retained the original twinned-crystal form of the feldspar so faithfully. The classic, egg-shell white color of the kaolinite is highlighted by flakes of muscovite embedded on the broad faces of the crystals. These specimens have always had a certain fascination about them, but the enormous size of the crystals, a full 9 cm! This is the largest we have seen for sale, personally. And, it is in remarkable condition as these are generally antiques (no telling how old, but most should predate the 1930s beyond a few scarce finds). The size takes the impressiveness of this piece to a whole nother level. These specimens are true classics from Cornwall and unique in the world. Formerly in the collection of Ed Raines (currently curating at Colorado School of Mines), as well as the prestigious pseudomorph collection of Dr. Wouter van Tichelen of Belgium.