Quartz Pseudomorph after Danburite

A pseudomorph is a term that describes the phenomenon of a crystal consisting of one mineral, but has the form of another mineral by which it has been replaced. This particular piece is a complete pseudomorph, in that the quartz has completely replaced the danburite. Further, it is unusual to find a danburite crystal of this size that has been completely altered to quartz.

While quartz (silicon oxide) may be the second most common mineral present in the Earth’s crust, many rare and unusual varieties offer opportunities for collectors. From the royal purple and golden hues of amethyst and citrine, to the intense turquoise and apple green of chrysocolla and chrysoprase, quartz has an incredible spectrum of available colors. Rare and unusual crystal forms such as scepters, gwindels, faden, elestial and “spirit” quartzes create incredibly diverse aesthetics. As a prime component within many of the great crystalline environments, quartz is also a frequent partner to other minerals, as evidenced by the quartz pseudomorph after danburite offered here.