Vivianite

A 2.0 x 1.0 x 0.8 cm crystal of the hydrated iron phosphate Vivianite, stands on a small matrix of limonite-coated Quartz.  From the Trepča complex in Kosovska Mitrovica, Kosovo, this lead-zinc-silver district did once contain about 40 mines, but often the specific mine was not recorded with the specimen, only the Trepča district.  This translucent crystal appears blackish-blue, but in transmitted light varies between a stunning iridescent electric blue and electric emerald-green.  The upper section of the crystal is slightly bent to one side, this most likely occurring during extraction within the mine.