Fluorite, Baryte

A lovely miniature featuring a rich purple fluorite perched on a matrix of sharp, well-formed baryte blades. The fluorite displays an unusual, somewhat pointed form, the result of growth against adjacent crystals, giving it a more sculptural appearance than the typical cubic habit. On the reverse, the classic cubic structure is more clearly visible. The colour is a pleasing medium to deep purple, standing out nicely against the pale baryte.

The Elmwood Mine, Tennessee, is one of the most celebrated North American localities for fluorite and baryte, known for producing high-quality specimens with excellent colour and crystal definition. Pieces combining both minerals in aesthetic balance, particularly in miniature form, are always desirable. This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff.