Vanadinite, Calcite & Hyalite Opal (circa 1960s)

Item Description

Dramatically hoppered, calcite-covered vanadinite crystals are festooned on this striking and impressive, mounded 360-degree small cabinet from the well-known Apex Mine. The larger crystals concentrated on the crest are stunning and reach 1.8 cm. The unusual secondary druzy calcite on the vanadinites adds character and contrast. The vanadinites rest on a striking radial mass of elongated, tapered calcite prisms. A major surprise and bonus is revealed under SW UV fluorescence! Neon-green blebs of hyalite opal are scattered about. The Pb-Zn-V-magnetite Apex Mine operated between the 1930s and 1952. Specimens of this combination quality came out in the 1960s and into the 70s. Bob Reynolds had a huge suite of lead minerals specializing in Mexico and vanadinites in particular, and this is his display quality example of this old find. See the 2008 Mineralogical Record article in the Mexico V Special Issue, Vol. 39, No. 6. A very rich and remarkable hoppered vanadinite and calcite combination with hyalite opal from the locale. Valued $1000-plus.