Siderite with Dolomite and Quartz

Siderite from the mining district around Příbram in the Czech Republic occurs in many habits. This specimen is a wonderful example displaying crisp, flattened rhombic crystals of deep caramel-tan with dark-grey patches on the prism faces. The crystals measure up to 2.3 cm on edge and average 5 mm thick, all with razor-sharp edges; sharp, pointed corners and a bright silvery lustre, yet showing a slight waxy lustre when studied close-up. Preferentially coating the Siderite from one direction are 1 mm colourless and transparent Quartz crystals with a brilliant glassy lustre. Although quite small, two separate 3 mm rhombs of snow-white Dolomite adorn the Siderite at one side. Beneath, on the base, is a single 2.3 x 1.7 x 0.8 cm translucent smoky light grey Dolomite crystal. A choice and aesthetic specimen.