Calcite included by Malachite

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Calcites with well-developed rhombic form are one of the signature species from the legendary Tsumeb Mine. Colorful calcites, with inclusions, are one of the most desired combos of this famous mine! This small-cabinet piece is composed of such calcite rhombs up to 1.5 cm on edge, and they cover the matrix end-to-end. The crystals are gemmy and bright with a very attractive, satiny luster that has an enticing, almost pearlescent, look about it. Like many calcites, the ones from Tsumeb are often included in an attractive manner, and here the associated inclusions are puffs of lovely green malachite. What is even more fascinating is that about two-thirds of the calcites are included, then they simply grade into pure and gemmy, clear calcites. The transition is dramatic, and it is almost as if we were privy to seeing an unusual variant of preferential effects, which as a whole are pretty remarkable. Even the bright orange fluorescence is preferential. This is an excellent, aesthetic, and prized specimen for this great mine. Likely from the 1970s or perhaps 1960s. This is a true Tsumeb treasure, and simply gorgeous in a well lit case.