Flower Calcite on Chlorite-Included Quartz — Inner Mongolia China

A wonderfully unusual mineral specimen from Inner Mongolia, China, combining delicate Calcite formations with chlorite-included Quartz.

The specimen is almost completely covered in clusters of pearly white Calcite, forming overlapping bladed and rosette-like crystals with a beautiful soft lustre. The Calcite seems to spill across the underlying Quartz, creating layers of texture and tiny crystalline pockets that sparkle as the piece is moved through the light.

Beneath the Calcite is what is known in the Chinese mineral trade as 绿泥水晶 — literally “chlorite quartz” — referring to Quartz containing or associated with chlorite. Earthy green-grey and darker mineral inclusions can be seen beneath and between the Calcite growth, creating a beautiful contrast between the more rugged underlying crystal and the pale formations above.

Tiny warm metallic flashes are also scattered throughout the specimen, adding unexpected points of shimmer amongst the Calcite.

Inner Mongolia is renowned amongst mineral collectors for its complex mineral associations and distinctive Calcite specimens. This piece is particularly appealing for its combination of contrasting crystal habits — delicate and almost floral from a distance, yet wonderfully intricate when viewed closely.

Provenance: Inner Mongolia, China
Minerals: Calcite on Chlorite-Included Quartz 

10.5cm x 4cm.

Please note: As this is a natural mineral specimen, variations in colour, crystal formations, inclusions, contact points, natural fractures and markings are part of its unique character. Colours may appear slightly different in person depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.