Polylithionite, Serandite, Albite, Rhodochrosite, Epididymite

This small cabinet specimen features partially skeletal salmon-pink serandite (or possibly schizolite), accompanied by lustrous, thin translucent "flowers" of silvery polylithionite in a complex and striking association with albite, rhodochrosite and epididymite. While some natural contacts and cleavages are present, the specimen remains a visually impressive and mineralogically rich assemblage. With additional study under magnification, even more detail and paragenetic relationships are likely to be revealed. Collected by Peter Tarassoff in 2003, this is a choice and distinctive example of classic Poudrette Quarry, Mont Saint-Hilaire material, showcasing the unique diversity for which this renowned locality is celebrated.

Mont Saint-Hilaire is considered one of the most mineralogically diverse localities in the world, having produced hundreds of rare and unique mineral species—including many of the finest best-of-species specimens ever found. Once accessible to collectors, the quarry is now under strict control, with field collecting entirely prohibited. As a result, specimens like this one have become increasingly scarce and sought after by collectors.

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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.