Fluorapatite (rare color and style)

Item Description

The "Alpine-type" cleft deposits at Tormiq are quite similar to their European counterparts, and have produced beautiful specimens dating back a few decades. While Fluorapatite is not unheard of from this locality, specimens like this one are certainly hard to find. This piece is a most unusual example, as it has a strange almost silvery-lilac hue that is rarely seen in the Fluorapatite. This piece was mined in the early 2000s and came from a single pocket, as I've never seen another crumb of it again. We actually had a couple of these circa 2010-2011 that we offered in the auctions, and I was pleased to see another to offer now. The specimen is essentially a complete "floater", as it's crystallized on all sides, with no damage or point of attachment. Three of the six prism faces have wonderful reflective luster, while the other three have a much more matte appearance. The same goes for both terminations, as one is rather shiny and the other is fairly dull. The crystal is not opaque, as it will pass light when backlit, and internally there is a slightly more golden hue than what it seen when the crystal is viewed in reflected light. The piece shows a weak yellow fluorescence under SW UV light. If you collect Apatites or you're a fan of Alpine cleft minerals, don't miss out on this interesting and unique example that is unlike almost anything you'll see from Pakistan or any other world locality. From the collection of Brian Kosnar.