Size: 8 x 5,5 x 5 cm
Location: Elmwood Mine - Smith Co. - Tennessee - USA
incl. in-house made custom base
This piece combines classic Elmwood aesthetics with a fascinating light effect that makes it something special. Two perfectly formed fluorite cubes in a rich purple are the clear focus - monumental, transparent and with an impressive structure. They are enthroned on a dark sphalerite matrix, which not only gives the piece stability, but also depth and contrast. Particularly impressive: a small dot of sphalerite is hidden behind one of the fluorite crystals, which lights up in an intense reddish brown when specifically backlit.
Color, shape and fascination
The two fluorite cubes are crystallized in an almost textbook manner. Their surfaces are smooth and clear, with slight structures on the surfaces that create a fascinating interplay of reflection and transparency depending on the incidence of light. The color is a rich violet - yet translucent and with a lot of inner depth.
Sphalerite as a dark matrix
The matrix consists of sphalerite in a dark reddish brown, almost black, with a metallic sheen. It forms a perfect stage for the fluorite cubes and contrasts their bright, clear appearance in an ideal way. But the real highlight is more subtle - behind one of the fluorites is a sphalerite which, when lit correctly, appears in a strong, almost glowing reddish brown. This inner glow gives the piece a second, hidden dimension - like a secret that only reveals itself to the patient observer.
Light & shadow - a play with depth
The fluorites are so clear and open that light can penetrate far into their interior. The lightly structured surface refracts the light in many ways, while the dark matrix absorbs it. This interplay of light and shadow creates a natural drama - especially when the piece is backlit. The effect of the shining sphalerite is like a small sunrise inside the crystal - a moment full of wonder.
Elegant presentation
For the presentation, we manufactured a custom-fit base in-house from high-quality acrylic glass, which holds the piece stably and lifts it slightly. The engraving on the front discreetly refers to the origin - Elmwood Mine, Tennessee - and stylishly rounds off the overall picture.
Elmwood Mine - where geometry meets brilliance
The Elmwood Mine is known worldwide for its perfectly crystallized fluorites - often in combination with sphalerite. This specimen exemplifies what collectors appreciate so much about this site: perfect cube shapes, rich colors and an almost artistic interplay of minerals. The unusual light effect inside is a stroke of luck - a real “wow” moment for any collection.
A piece for collectors with an eye for the extraordinary
This collector's item combines everything that makes fluorite special: geometry, color, transparency - and with the inner glow of the sphalerite, even an almost poetic depth. Ideal for collectors who appreciate not only beauty but also the play of light. Whether in an illuminated display case or as the centerpiece of a collection - this piece attracts attention and remains in the memory.
