CALCITE ON AMETHYST. ...

Description

CALCITE ON AMETHYST
Artigas, Artigas Department, Uruguay
The volcanic lava flows of Uruguay are famous for producing Amethyst cavities lined with crystals of that deep purple variety of Quartz. They are often transparent enough to cut gemstones and frequently, that is their fate. Occasionally, Calcite crystals can be found clinging to the inside of these purple jewel-boxes. Most of the Calcites are interesting but not exceptionally notable as Calcite specimens go, when considered by themselves. This example is an exception: a very rare exception. The Amethyst crystals covering the volcanic matrix are unusual to begin with - they possess light-colored or colorless basal areas that gradually deepen in saturation to a deep purple at the terminations. This rare gradation produces a separation and contrast effect that is more striking than the normal uniform dark purple we've come to expect. But it isn't the appearance of the Amethyst that makes this a Magnum Opus of the type; it is the presence of an ENORMOUS, undamaged & transparent Calcite crystal that places this specimen in the stratospheric realm of "The World's Finest" examples known.

This almost colorless giant prism measures some 11 inches in height and 7 inches in diameter. The transparency is hidden to some degree by complex, trigonal surface features along with a liberal dusting of light Amethyst crystals of sparkling appearance. In addition, there is a second Calcite crystal that is a mere 8 ½ inches high and approximately 4 ½ inches in diameter. It also shows similar surface features. ALL of the crystals, Amethyst and Calcite alike, are in pristine condition. The likelihood of a specimen of similar caliber being produced, much less offered at auction, is infinitesimally small. This is a unique specimen in the truest sense of the term. Overall measurements are approximately 18 inches wide x 17 inches deep x 14 inches high.

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