Calcite on Stilbite & Apophyllite

Calcite on Stilbite & Apophyllite

Jalgaon District, Nashik Division, Maharashtra, India

14 cm wide x 10.8 cm tall

This is a striking mineral specimen featuring a large, water clear, and sharply faceted pale lemon tinted calcite dominating the composition. Adjacent to this calcite is a cluster of peach-colored, stilbite crystals, providing a warm contrast to the transparent calcite. Surrounding these dominant elements is a bed of smaller, sparkling, transparent crystals of apophyllite, creating a textured and intricate base. The overall composition showcases a harmonious interplay of geometric forms and contrasting colors, emphasizing natural beauty and crystalline structure.

The Deccan Plateau, where this specimen was mined, is a vast area in India filled with many of the world’s most spectacular mineral specimens. When we began our mineral adventure over 40 years ago minerals from India were plentiful and they seemingly came out in increasing numbers, it was thought they’d never end. The best, like this example, were always scarce. From a source in India, I have been told that mining production of specimens is just 5% of what it was 10 years ago. We can no longer assume more pieces will be available. Now is the moment to acquire the best from India.