SM23-68
Fluorite and Quartz
Shizhuyuan Mine, Dongpo ore field, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou, Hunan, China
Small Cabinet, 7.7 x 6.5 x 5.9 cm
SOLD
This is just an absolutely stunning Fluorite on Quartz from an obscure Chinese locality that is actually quite productive but few westerners know the name or how to recognize them from the general Hunan supply. According to Mindat, the Shizhuyuan Mine is developed in a W-Mo-Bi-Sn-Be-F skarn deposit and it is the largest polymetallic tungsten deposit of its kind in China, however, we very rarely see any specimens from here labelled as such, even though it is quite productive. This well composed and well balanced combination piece features a large, transparent, multihued purple Fluorite that displays prominently on a cluster of milky Quartz crystals. The sumptuous, glassy Fluorite measures 4.5 cm in maximum dimension and is dominated by octahedral faces with small cube modifications. A thick zone at the exterior of the crystal is completely limpid and a pale blue-purple color quickly transitioning into a rich purple area at the center that displays numerous, captivating phantoms! This area is about 1.5 cm across and abounds with a few sub-millimeter thick dark purple zones along with a nearly 1 mm thick intense purple phantom! This crystal is just mesmerizing from its glassy luster to its perfect form and its intricate interior to its placement on the milky Quartz crystals! From 2017 finds, purchased in China.