Dawsonite, Fluorite

This specimen features several purple fluorite cubes scattered across the surface of a vug lined with acicular sprays of dawsonite crystals. This piece is particularly impressive under the microscope. The specimen comes from the Francon Quarry in central Montreal, this site is renowned for its unique alkalic intrusive sill in limestone. The quarry ceased operations in 1981 and will never reopen, making specimens from this locality exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.

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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