Calcite incl. w/ hydrocarbons w/ Fluorite (both fluorescent)

Minerva No. 1 Mine, Cave-in-Rock, Hardin Co., Illinois
Cabinet, 14.0 x 13.3 x 5.8 cm
Start Time: 10/20/2017 6:30:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 10/26/2017 6:40:11 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

Aesthetic rosette-like clusters of lustrous, translucent, light brown nailhead calcite rhombs richly cover the large matrix plate on this impressive and highly unusual style of calcite from this famous fluorite mine. Most calcites from the Minerva are scalenohedrons or bundles of parallel-growth crystals, making this a RARE large example of this varietal. Small lavender fluorites on the left side are a nice accent. UNUSUALLY, the calcites fluoresce a rich mustard-yellow under UV light, suggesting that the brown color may be due to inclusions of hydrocarbons! The fluorites fluoresce purple. Rare and seldom seen large calcite of this varietal. Value??

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