Fluorite with Chalcopyrite and radiation-induced spots - image 1

Fluorite with Chalcopyrite and radiation-induced spots - image 2

Fluorite with Chalcopyrite and radiation-induced spots - image 3

Fluorite with Chalcopyrite and radiation-induced spots - image 4

Fluorite with Chalcopyrite and radiation-induced spots

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Eye-catching cluster of purple-blue Fluorites containing numerous, prominent dark spots. These occur due to local, tiny ingrown bits of radioactive material that excites the electrons of some fluorite molecules around them and causes a permanent "smoky" effect as happens also in smoky quartz. It is very rare to see this dispersed pinpoint phenomenon in fluorite! The Fluorites are gemmy to translucent, have good luster, and the largest crystal is 4.7 cm. While decorated with 1-mm-size Chalcopyrites, which add a level of aesthetics and mineral interest, the real star of this show are the radiation spots. These show beautifully, and average 3-4 mm in size. The pics tell the story, and we think show this will standout as a conversation piece in any collection. Mined in 1988. RCL1937