Calcite - Hunan Province, China

Two rhombohedral calcite crystals joined together form the centerpiece of this specimen, accompanied by a few smaller crystals around the edges. Several generations of calcite are visible: a first generation, one face of which is largely covered by a deposit of iron oxides giving it its brick-red hue, followed by a second generation of colorless calcite that partially covers the first generation.

The crystals feature truncated edges and lustrous surfaces, with a particularly striking contrast between the light-colored faces and the areas covered with iron oxides.

8 x 4.8 x 4 cm

Highlights of this specimen:

- Two main rhombohedral crystals forming a well-structured cluster.
- Several clearly visible generations of calcite.
- Contrast between colorless calcite and surfaces covered with iron oxides

For your information:

- Calcites from Hunan are particularly renowned for the diversity of their morphologies and mineral associations. The red to reddish-brown hues observed on some specimens are frequently associated with iron oxides present on the surface or as inclusions.