Purple Fluorite with Carlhintzeite

Description

Deep purple cubic Fluorite carries an unusually rich distribution of vivid lemon-yellow Carlhintzeite, producing exceptional colour contrast and immediate cabinet presence.

This striking large cabinet specimen features a dense field of deep purple Fluorite cubes richly decorated with bright lemon-yellow Carlhintzeite. The yellow aggregates follow crystal edges, occupy recesses and scatter across the display face, creating a distinctive network of colour over the darker Fluorite.

The Fluorite ranges from smoky violet to concentrated purple, with lighter translucent areas visible around the margins. Closely intergrown cubic crystals give the piece strong relief and depth, while the granular to botryoidal yellow association provides both textural and chromatic contrast.

Carlhintzeite is an uncommon mineral species, and its documented occurrence at the Qinglong mining district has attracted collector interest. Here, the breadth of the yellow coverage and its association with a substantial Fluorite matrix make the specimen particularly effective as a display piece.

At 12 cm in both width and height and weighing 1.25 kg, this specimen has a commanding upright presentation. The included custom acrylic and metal stand keeps the richly crystallised face clearly visible.

Locality: Qinglong County, Guizhou Province, China. The more precise mine or working was not supplied and is therefore not claimed.

Identification: The yellow mineral association is recorded as Carlhintzeite according to the supplied identification. No independent laboratory analysis has been undertaken by Avalon.

Handling and care: Fluorite has perfect cleavage and the yellow surface mineralisation is delicate. Handle using the stand, support the specimen from beneath, avoid impact or pressure, keep dry and clean only with a soft brush.

The cubic habit gives the specimen a strongly geometric character. The visible faces and edges show how separate crystals meet and overlap within the group. Larger faces establish the outline, while smaller growth adds detail between them. The balance between exposed cubes and intergrown areas is a useful feature when comparing this piece with others of the same mineral.

The recorded Carlhintzeite association adds the distinctive yellow growth described for this piece alongside its purple Fluorite. That contrast brings two very different visual elements into the same specimen. The distribution of the associated material is particularly important to its character, giving the cube faces a setting and a surface texture beyond the Fluorite alone.

Fluorite is calcium fluoride and crystallises in the cubic system. Cubes and octahedra are among its familiar forms, but intergrowths, modified faces and changes during growth can produce much more complex outlines. This combination of recognisable geometry and considerable variation makes Fluorite a rewarding mineral to collect by both crystal habit and locality.

Fluorite can be colourless or show a wide range of colours, sometimes within one specimen. Transparency, crystal thickness and illumination influence how those colours appear. Its glassy faces contrast with more textured areas and any accompanying matrix. Colour zoning and fluorescence are separate properties; a particular response under ultraviolet light should only be expected where it has been recorded for the individual piece.

The recorded origin is Qinglong County, Guizhou Province, China. Within a collection of Fluorite specimens, this locality gives the piece a geographical identity alongside its particular crystal habit and natural setting.

The specimen measures 12 × 12 × 7.5 cm, with a recorded weight of 1.25 kg. Its scale gives the natural architecture room to be appreciated as a whole, while the finer growth provides detail for closer study.

Condition: Natural contacts, edge wear, cleavages and extraction-related irregularities may be present, as expected for a large Fluorite specimen. Please examine all three photographs carefully; the exact specimen shown will be supplied.

Fluorite has well-developed cleavage and should be supported by its stable matrix or mount. Avoid pressing on projecting cubes or corners. A secure indoor position allows the natural geometry and colour to be appreciated while keeping the exposed growth protected.