Arsenian Vanadinite ("Endlichite") - Image 2

Arsenian Vanadinite ("Endlichite")

Name: Arsenian Vanadinite ("Endlichite")
SKU: 33255-PT
Availability: InStock

33255-PT Category: Morocco - Various Species and Localities

Touissit-Bou Beker, Jerada Prov., Oriental Region

Morocco

Dimensions: 8.6x7.8xx3.6 cm

Largest crystal size: 4 mm

Price: CA

$200.00

This impressive old-stock vanadinite specimen hails from the Touissit mining district in Morocco, rather than the more famous Mibladen locality known for its deep red vanadinite crystals. Instead, Touissit specimens exhibit distinctive prismatic hexagonal barrels with a tan to brown colouration. These well-formed tan vanadinite crystals rest on a dolomite matrix, which features a black coating—likely mottramite—beneath the tan vanadinite, creating excellent contrast. Additionally, the dark surface conceals what appear to be numerous dark brown descloizite crystals. Mined in the late 1970s to early 1980s, these arsenic-bearing vanadinites represent a rare and nearly extinct find, as no significant discoveries of this material have been made since. With only minor bruising to the matrix, this is a superb example from an elusive and historic locality.

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal by the Mineralogical Association of Canada. All specimens from this collection come with the original P. Tarassoff collection label.

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

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