Sphalerite on Quartz

Item Description

A superb Dalnegorsk Sphalerite on Quartz combination specimen probably from 1990 finds here. The eye-catching Sphalerite crystal is very geometric and consists of compounded and modified tetrahedral crystals all measuring well over an inch in size. All of the lustrous composite crystals are in are in slightly staggered parallel growth with pronounced edges. This is undoubtedly the iron-rich Marmatite variety as most Dalnegorsk Sphalerites are. It's flashy blackness contrasts nicely with the pale gray to greenish accented Quartz crystals. Small, 3 to 5 mm, needle-like Quartz crystals make up most of the matrix with larger, 1.5 to 4 cm transparent to translucent Quartz crystals jutting out in random orientation on the piece, some doubly terminated. There is also a fine green dusting of what looks like a Chlorite Group mineral on the Quartz crystals for added interest and color. A well composed small cabinet piece from Dalnegorsk with excellent balance and aesthetics.