Andalusite var: Chiastolite

Item Description

A classic old-time specimen of Chiastolite, from the famous locality in Lancaster, Massachusetts. Chiastolite used to be a valid species, but it now defined as a variety of Andalusite with cross-shaped inclusions of carbon. There are many localities around the world where this material is found, but these particular pieces are iconic among East Coast / New England collectors. Like most of the specimens from this locality, this piece has been sliced to show the cross section growth with the dark black carbon inclusions creating a diamond-shaped growth. A beautiful example of this classic material, seldom seen in today's market.