Hedenbergite, Grunerite

This specimen displays parallel growth in a divergent fan-like cluster of dark green hedenbergite crystals, with many individual flat, beveled terminations terminations. Associated with a bit of dark fibrous Grunerite. There is no matrix and just a bit of damage to a couple crystals at the top.

Hedenbergite, a rock-forming mineral, rarely forms distinct, large crystals, making this piece particularly noteworthy. This elegant specimen, originates from the renowned deposits of Dal'negorsk in the Russian Far East. Historically, Dal'negorsk was known by its Chinese name, 'Tetyukhe' or 'Tetjuche,' meaning 'valley of the wild pigs,' a name occasionally found on older mineral labels. The Verkhnee deposit, one of nine in the region, was first developed in 1912, with boron mineralization prospected by 1945. Dal'negorsk remains a world-famous source of exceptional mineral specimens.