SOLD

Mordenite, Analcime, Dolomite

Francon Quarry, Saint-Michel dist., Montreal, Quebec
Canada
Dimensions: 4.0x3.1x1.9 cm
Price: CA

This specimen features soft white tufts of the zeolite mordenite safely nestled in a vug, a rare occurrence for the Francon Quarry. It is accompanied by micro dolomite and white analcime crystals. Mordenite is a zeolite mineral first described in 1864 by Henry How, named after the small community of Morden, Nova Scotia, Canada, along the Bay of Fundy, where it was first found. Collected by Dr. Tarassoff in 1978, this specimen originates from the Francon Quarry in central Montreal. Known for its alkalic intrusive sill in limestone, the quarry ceased operations in 1981 and will never reopen, making specimens from this location particularly rare and valuable to collectors.

--

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 and the Mineralogical Society of America for over 30 years. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal by the Mineralogical Association of Canada.

Peter's dedication to systematic collecting, curating his collection, and maintaining an archive of detailed historical and scientific information has greatly benefited the mineral sciences community both in Canada and globally. All specimens from this collection come with the original P. Tarassoff collection label.

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

Mineral Enthusiast? Join the Newsletter.

Be the first to know: latest additions, featured minerals, events, and exclusive updates await you.

Subscribe Now!


D Joyce Minerals
Rare Canadian & Global
Minerals, since 1983

Website design by Melanie Lane.
Development and maintenance by Wenex Media Works.

crossmenuchevron-downchevron-leftchevron-right