Vanadinite

This classic specimen from the Apache Mine features dozens of sharp, lustrous, orange-red tabular hexagonal vanadinite crystals, measuring up to 3 mm, richly covering much of the host rock matrix. The gemmy, brick-red crystals form a striking display, best appreciated with a loupe, as the smallest crystals exhibit remarkable clarity. This well-preserved specimen dates back to the mid-1960s and remains in excellent condition.

The Apache Mine, discovered in 1875 and active between 1929 and 1957, was a surface and underground operation known for producing lead, vanadium, molybdenum, zinc, copper, silver, gold, and tungsten. While vanadinite specimens from this locality are highly sought after, it is important to note that mining claims are currently active, and collecting is prohibited. The crystals appear a deeper red in person than in photos—refer to the accompanying video for accurate colour representation.

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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