Calcite, Analcime

This striking two-sided combination specimen comes from a lesser-known basalt quarry in Oregon, a locality from which specimens are rarely seen on the market. The piece features several several well-formed rhombic calcite crystals perched atop a drusy layer of exceptionally sparkly, glassy analcime crystals. Under UV light, the calcites fluoresce a super bright, ghostly white. The reverse side reveals many additional calcite crystals. Aside from minor contact points where it was removed from the pocket wall, the specimen is in excellent condition.

Basalt quarries in Oregon are known primarily for zeolite mineralization formed during low-temperature hydrothermal alteration of volcanic rocks, with analcime being among the more characteristic species. However, calcite of this quality and size occurring in association with zeolites is far less common, making specimens like this particularly noteworthy. The combination of sharp calcite crystals, brilliant analcime druse, and strong fluorescence makes this an especially interesting and collectible example from a locality that is seldom represented in collections. Purchased in 1998, this specimen comes from the collection of Peter Tarassoff.