Calcite on Stibnite

Unknown Owner

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China produced some absolutely wonderful Calcite/Stibnite combinations in the late 1990s and early 2000s. One of these small finds occurred at the Xianhuang Mine, and the very best, such as this miniature, are stellar. These golden Calcites are gem clear, have superb luster, and many of the crystal faces have the striations that are classic. 3.8 cm long, the largest Calcite is both doubly-terminated and twinned, with a very well-defined and dramatic twinning plane. In fact, twinning in these particular Calcites is rare. The Calcites rest on a nest of vertical Stibnites that are nicely terminated and lustrous. Nearly pristine, with only one very small bruise that I can notice, this combination has superb aesthetics, and is even better in person. You would be hard-pressed to find any of these available today, let alone one of this quality. For the material, it is a "jewel" ! Ex Smale Collection