Natural History

Natural History

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 76. Large Fluorite.

Large Fluorite

Lot Closed

December 3, 08:16 PM GMT

Estimate

6,000 - 9,000 USD

Lot Details

Description

Large Fluorite

Emilio Mine, Caravia District, Asturias, Spain


10 by 6 by 41/2 inches (25.4 x 15.3 x 11.4 cm). Largest crystals 2¼ inches (5.6 cm). 11 pounds (5 kg).


This large fluorite specimen boasts highly modified cubes of a striking blue-purple hue. Two small restorations ameliorate mining induced crystal damage.

Also known as fluorspar, fluorite is often transparent, making it valuable in the production of various types of glass. The mineral form of calcium fluoride, fluorite takes on various hues due to impurities, with the brilliant blue-purple specimen offered here as a prime example.