KAOLINITE ps. after ORTHOCLASE

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

Colloquially known as "pigs eggs", this pseudomorph of Kaolinite (china clay) after a twinned Orthoclase feldspar crystal is a classic from the Cornish China Clay pits. Many are very rounded on their edges, but this one from Melbur China Clay Pit has unusually sharp edges. At 3.5 cm across, the crystals are a really great size too. Specimens like this were found during the late 20th century and with the decline in the china clay industry no new crystals have been seen for many years. Ex Malcolm Southwood collection.