Calcite on Calcite and limestone

This very aesthetic cluster of gemmy, cognac-colored calcite crystals are all perched on a sliver of limestone matrix, highlighting a large sharp twin. The twinned and doubly-terminated crystal on the left measures 12 cm across while the crystal on the right exhibits 5 multi-forked crystal tips in great condition; Only very minor bruising on two minor crystal tips keeps this specimen from being totally pristine, but these are so trivial in context it does not detract. Unusual shape and superb crystal architecture, combined with a very high glassy luster and the sharp twinning, make this a fine cabinet piece (especially for the price range)! This classic Elmwood calcite specimen reminds me of a sailing ship when displayed horizontally, although it can go vertical as well. It is a floater, complete all around. The color here is a little unusual, almost a pastel color, and the sparkling twin grew as a later growth upon previous crystals of a more white color. We obtained this and others here long ago from the long held private estate collection of Houston dealers Consie and Dalton Prince, who sold so much of this material in the 1980s-90s.