Quartz

This specimen is an unusually formed grey quartz crystal capped with red hematite inclusions. The crystal is dramatically contorted, bent almost back on itself, with the termination pointing toward the rear of the perky box, giving it a highly distinctive and eye-catching form.

The specimen originates from a road-widening project along Highway 400, just past Port Severn, Ontario. This road cut became well known among local collectors for producing distinctive quartz crystals from nearly every vug that was exposed during blasting. Although the site can technically still be visited, it lies in the median of a busy stretch of highway in cottage country, making access hazardous and impractical. Additionally, the locality has been heavily picked over during the decades since its exposure, making specimens of this quality and character increasingly difficult to find.