Calcite

An attractive specimen featuring lustrous calcite crystals lining a vug, the matrix is made up of rich reddish-brown to golden-brown iron oxides. In places, fine inclusions of iron oxide within the calcite give some crystals a red internal hue. This specimen comes from the international collection of Peter Tarassoff.

The specimen originates from the famous Potosí Mine in the renowned Santa Eulalia Mining District. This district, located within the Aquiles Serdán Municipality, is celebrated for its world-class silver–lead–zinc deposits hosted in limestone. It has long been known for producing exceptional calcite crystals, many showing colourful iron oxide staining formed in the oxidizing supergene environment. Well-preserved examples such as this represent classic Santa Eulalia material and remain highly sought after by collectors.