Manganocalcite (fluorescent) on Quartz

Item Description

These Peruvian specimens are among the most recognizable Manganocalcites in the world. The soft pink crystals, up to 1.4 cm on edge, are well-formed, and the secondary overgrowths of Calcite actually produce two distinctive looks. Along the very edges, there is narrow layer that has a bright shimmer to it, almost chatoyant it is so vivid and noticeable. Adding to that, the secondary overgrowth of Calcite scalenohedrons on the faces creates an all-encompassing coating that is sharp and most unusual. Imagine the Karakoram Range, in micro, completely covering the crystals! Underlying the the Manganocalcites is a layer of sharp Quartz crystals. And of course there is the intense, orange fluorescence. This is a classic Pachapaqui combination piece, probably from the 1980s heyday here; and they are no longer being mined. This was recently deaccessed from the extensive collection of Bob Reynolds, who cherished both minerals and fossils as he collected. Bob is a prolific author and has had several curating positions in museums.