Fluorite, Dawsonite

Fluorite specimens from the now-extinct Francon Quarry in Montreal are typically rounded and light purple. However, this specimen features some of the most impressive fluorite crystals I've had the pleasure to come across. Best viewed under a microscope, the piece showcases sharp, lustrous dark indigo purple fluorite cubes nestled in small vugs, accompanied by delicate acicular sprays of colourless dawsonite—of which Francon is the type locality. The Francon Quarry, an alkalic intrusive sill in limestone, ceased operations in 1981, ensuring that specimens from this unique site remain exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.