Pyromorphite

Asprières in the Occitanie region of southern France is recognised as a classic locality for several mineral species amongst which is Pyromorphite.  Pyromorphite occurs here in a variety of habits and colours, although the rather bubbly habit of this beautiful cabinet specimen is one seen often enough as to be recognisable from Asprières.  Lustrous, oily siskin-green, rounded Pyromorphite crystals cover the entire top surface of a fawn, tan, light-brown and white matrix of Baryte, built of tightly packed and naturally cemented blades.  The Pyromorphite crystals average 5 to 8 mm wide and form as curved prismatic barrels with flat hexagonal terminations.  These pinacoid faces very between, flat, concave, stippled and smooth.  The Pyromorphite, which covers an area of approximately 10 x 7.5 cm is edged with an acidic lemon ring where the peripheral Pyromorphite crystals have been split open on removal from the vug.  An eye-catching specimen which will make a superb display piece.