Small numbers of unusual, and distinctive, Fluorite specimens came from Kazakhstan during the 1980s and early 1990s but the tungsten mine at Kara-Oba from where they came closed in 1996. This large miniature specimen displays the classic octahedral crystal form typical of this deposit but in a very dark purple colour. The Fluorite forms a complex aggregate of intergrown crystals, the largest reaching 2.5 cm on edge. Individually, the crystals display a very unusual triangular 'stepped' pattern, almost like overlapping scales. Stepped faces on cubic Fluorite crystals are rare enough, but triangular - because of the triangular faces on the octahedral crystals - is much rarer. Geometrically, it is a delight to look at. Small pale blue glassy Fluorapatite crystals occur in association around the base of the Fluorite crystals. The specimen is mounted on an acrylic base for display. A lovely, complex Fluorite, from an unusual locality.
Comments