Monazite-Ce (color change ''butterfly'' twins) on Quartz

Item Description

Most of the Monazite crystals in the world are found in pegmatite environments, but in 2003 there was a discovery of some really fine quality and attractive Monazite-(Ce) specimens in the hydrothermal tin veins at the world famous Siglo XX Mine in Bolivia. Analysis has showed that this is quite chemically pure Monazite-(Ce) as there is an absolute absence of thorium, a typical trace element in Monazite species. Here we have a wonderful large miniature / small cabinet sized specimen featuring fine quality, well-crystallized, rare, very sharp, attractive, lustrous, translucent, doubly-terminated, "butterfly" twinned crystals of Monazite-Ce measuring up to 7 mm sitting on prismatic Quartz crystals on host rock matrix. For an added touch, the Monazite crystals actually show a color change with an eye-catching pinkish-orange hue in most lighting, but a distinct yellow hue can be seen in more blue fluorescent light. These colors are rare for any species of Monazite as they are often rather dark and opaque from most localities. The combination of the excellent twinned crystals and the beautiful color make this a VERY worthwhile rarity that would make a superb addition to any collection of rare minerals, Bolivian minerals or worldwide phosphates. This was a one-time find, and if you missed out on these when they first came out nearly 20 years ago, now is great chance to pick up a good example of this attractive material from this world-famous mine.