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Calcite with Pyrite
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Earlier in the 2000s, Chenzhou saw the discovery of just a few, very limited finds that produced these truly amazing Calcite specimens of blocky, lustrous Calcite crystals showing sparkling patterns of pyrite upon them. The Calcites that form this cluster are modified rhombs ranging up to about 6 cm in size. Interiors are gemmy-to-translucent, and combined with a superb, glassy luster these characteristics impart a grey-white tinge to these basically colorless crystals. Stepped modifications along a few of the edges give some of the crystals a rounded appearance, which is rather dramatic and attractive. The surfaces are so glassy that they look and feel almost melted, and this look adds even more to the aesthetics. The ‘icing on the cake,’ though, are the Pyrites. These have grown on many of the rhombohedral and stepped edges, creating a stunning appearance. I have always found preferential coatings and effects to be a fascinating aspect to many minerals, and this example is simply stunning. The piece is so beautiful and glittery that it almost looks like it should be kept in your safe deposit box rather than your mineral case. Mild, reddish-pink fluorescence. This is one of the most famous and highly desired of all Calcite styles from China since the 1990s when they started flowing out. Understandably, this was in the Liebetraus’ Desautels Award-winning case in 2012 (Best in Show Competition, winning case).
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