ERYTHRITE on NATIVE BISMUTH

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

This is a beautifully complex specimen from a classic European occurrence. It consists of intimate intergrowths of crystallized Native Bismuth, Quartz and Erythrite (aka Cobalt Bloom). One one side of the side of the specimen the Native Bismuth has developed freestanding complex crystals to several millimetres in size with partial coatings of secondary Erythrite. On the other side the Native Bismuth is more compact and forms symplectic intergrowths, possibly with a cobalt-bearing mineral, with pale pink Erythrite infilling cavities. Minor microcrystals of Pyrite are also present within some cavities as overgrowth on small Quartz crystals. Some of the Native Bismuth is tarnished to a dull grey colour (mostly the crystals), whilst other areas display a spectacular pinkish to golden metallic appearance. Specimens of crystalline Native Bismuth from the Schlema-Hartenstein District in Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany are rarely seen for sale. Large hand specimens like this are even rarer. A really fine German classic.