Witherite, a relatively rare barium carbonate, crystallises in the orthorhombic system and forms pseudo-hexagonal prisms of variable geometry at Nentsberry Haggs mine on Alston Moor in Cumbria. In this incredible specimen, the prisms are completely flattened to form hexagonal crystalline plates of around 3 cm on edge, about 5.5 cm across flats and 5 to 8 mm thick. Of translucent pale straw-yellow, the plates are stacked to form a large pagoda-like stepped tower emanating from a mixed Witherite and grey granular matrix. A magnificent and heavy cabinet display specimen.
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