Fluorite

13203

Locality

Keng Zi Kou Mine, Xiayang Town, Yongchun County, Qionzhou City, Fujian Provence, China

Dimensions (H x W x D)

9 x 14.5 x 7 cm

Weight

597 g

Description & Provenance

Fujian, “Happy Establishment” in Chinese, is an incredibly mineral-rich area known for producing coal, copper, tungsten, molybdenum, gold, graphite, iron and kaolin. It is only in recent years, however, that mineral specimens of fine quality have been recovered. Exceptionally unique, these recent specimen finds have included smoky quartz crystals speckled with gemmy orange garnets, as well as semi-translucent, di-pyramidal stepped fluorite crystals of a vibrant lime green coloration.

In April 2017, a pocket of never-before-seen fluorites was discovered in Fujian. The best examples had a spectacular, gem-like quality to them with all the vitreous luster and shapely form that one might expect from a cut and polished stone. Most astounding though, was the remarkable color that they exhibited a sumptuous blue tone when shown in in cool-toned light, and a stunning royal purple, seen in warm-toned light. For this reason, many likened the fluorites to tanzanite, a fabulous gemstone known to exhibit pleochroism, the ability to exhibit different colors depending on the axes at which it is viewed. The fluorites were such a strong nod to the precious stone, the collecting world affectionately gave them the moniker, “tanzanite fluorites.” The well-crystalized examples of tanzanite fluorite that were found exhibit cubic, cubo-octahedral, dodecahedral, and modified cubic crystal habits, furthering their likeness to gems.

This eye-catching specimen is an excellent example of the best characteristics of the find. It has a rich, blue color under cool lighting, and a gorgeous purple color under warm lighting. Not only are the color properties amazing, its crystals are impeccably formed. They have a modified, dodecahedral habit, and sharp terminations, making them resemble cut and facetted gemstones. They’re extremely attractive thanks to window-like transparency, vivid coloring, and brilliant luster. This is an impressive example from a find that has set a new bar for the species.

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