Chabazite (var: Phacolite), Calcite

This is a superb example of the classic "Phacolite"-twinned chabazite from Clifton Hill, Australia. The specimen features numerous sharp, lustrous, and gemmy colourless rhombic crystals scattered across the grey matrix, with the largest crystal measuring 4 mm across. There is also associated calcite in the vugs that glow bright white under Ultra Violet light.

This specimen is an excellent addition for zeolite collectors or those specializing in Australian minerals, as quality examples from this locality are increasingly difficult to find.

The Clifton Hill quarries date back to at least 1846, with small-scale quarrying operations open for public leasing. By 1884, part of the land was granted to the Collingwood Council for quarrying purposes. These sites, known as the Corporation Quarries and Metropolitan Quarries, were significant sources of fine zeolite specimens for local rockhounds. Quarrying ceased in the late 20th century, and remediation was completed in 1983, making this historic locality no longer accessible.

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