Natrolite, Analcime

This specimen features a striking radiating balls of natrolite crystals attached to a wall of soft peach analcime crystals, from the famous Wasson's Bluff on the Bay of Fundy. Though appearing delicate, these tightly packed crystal spheres are surprisingly durable. This piece beautifully showcases a classic and aesthetic combination of Bay of Fundy zeolites.

While often overshadowed by the vast Deccan basalt deposits of India, the Bay of Fundy remains a premier zeolite locality, producing exceptional specimens of chabazite, gmelinite, analcime, natrolite, and thomsonite—some of which remain rare in Indian deposits. Nova Scotia's significance in zeolite mineralogy is further enhanced by the continuous exposure of new material, driven by the world's highest tides, ensuring its lasting status as a top-tier zeolite source.

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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.