Chrysotile (Asbestos)

This is an exceptional cabinet-sized specimen of long-fiber chrysotile (asbestos) from the historic Thetford Mines district in Quebec, once known as the “asbestos capital of Canada.” Located in the Appalachian Mountains, Thetford was at the heart of Canada’s asbestos industry for over a century, beginning in the late 19th century and continuing until the mines were permanently closed in the early 2010s. At its peak, the region produced a significant portion of the world’s chrysotile, and its mines are now considered classic localities in Canadian mineralogy.

The specimen itself represents a superb section of a chrysotile vein, displaying beautiful cross-fibre crystallization intermixed with serpentine. The fibers show a vivid green coloration and a striking chatoyant effect, with iridescent reflections. With minimal matrix and a well-defined vein structure, this piece is an outstanding and scientifically important example of chrysotile from one of the most storied asbestos-producing regions in the world.