Fluorite

The Bypass Pocket is one of the more recently discovered pockets at Diana Maria mine in Weardale. Fluorite from this find is easily recognised by the intensely dark purple daylight fluorescence of the large interpenetrant twinned crystals which sit on a bed of smaller single intergrown Fluorites. Most crystals on this magnificent specimen, both single and twinned, tend to form as elongated cubes and are of a good transparency, typically gemmy, with a bright yet waxy lustre. The twins attain 3.5 cm overall, with individual crystals to 2.1 cm and readily fluoresce in both natural and artificial light. In daylight their intensity turns near-jet black, contrasting sharply against the surrounding nickel-emerald-green singles. Under LWUV all crystals fluoresce an intense blue-lilac with brilliant lavender-white rims. Without any doubt, Fluorite from the Bypass Pocket is a modern-day classic and this is a wonderful example.