Serandite, Analcime, Polylithionite, Aegirine

This specimen features a fairly well-formed serandite crystal perched on an analcime and microcline matrix, from the Desourdy Quarry at Mont Saint-Hilaire. The main crystal displays one superb, sharply defined face that exhibits the rich salmon-orange to pink colour that characterizes the finest serandite from this classic locality. It is translucent, with a soft velvety internal sheen. One additional crystal face is moderately developed, while the remaining sides are contacted where the crystal was once attached to the matrix. Associated species include black aegirine and lustrous beige polylithionite. Serandite from Mont Saint-Hilaire is celebrated not only for its vivid colour and sharp forms but also for its robust, blocky crystals, a rarity within the wollastonite group, which typically forms more slender or fibrous habits. Though minor imperfections are present, the specimen remains in overall excellent condition and would possesses a strong aesthetic impact if displayed. This piece was collected by Peter Tarassoff in 1973.