FLUORITE with BARYTE on QUARTZ epimorph after FLUORITE

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

Yaogangxian mine in Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province is one of the most famous Fluorite-producing mines in China, having provided stunning glassy crystals in a diverse range of colours and also with many different crystal forms. What it is not renowned for is Quartz epimorphs after Fluorite, or Baryte. This cabinet-sized display specimen from Arvid Pasto's famous Fluorite collection features just that. Taking centre stage, but partially concealed under later Fluorite and Baryte, is a 3.2 cm wide cream coloured cubic Quartz epimorph after Fluorite. Its corner is missing, allowing its hollow, epimorphic form to be seen, otherwise it might have been assumed to be a pseudomorph. Later Fluorite in the form of rounded, berry-like purple crystals and white cockscomb aggregates of bladed Baryte add to the interest in this wonderful piece.