Pink and green bi-colour Fluorite, Aquamarine and mica mineral specimen

Elevate your collection with this rare, superb Fluorite and aquamarine mineral specimen 

 

Detail of Aquamarine and bi-colour fluorite

Excavated in the Hunza region of Pakistan, this is a substantial and stellar specimen that could become the cornerstone of your collection. 

An extraordinary mineral specimen featuring a sizeable unpolished Aquamarine, as well as rare Pink and Green Fluorite, resting on a bed of delicately sharded golden bronze muscovite mica.

Out of all the vibrant hues of fluorite, Pink is the least common, second only in rarity to bicolour. This green and pink example, with its stunning bi-colour combination makes this specimen even more exceptional. 

With the presence of 3 distinct elements each significant in size, this is an opportunity to add an exceptional piece to your collection.

Size and form:

At one end of this 310 mm long specimen is a beautifully faceted, well-terminated, 60x60mm pink and green fluorite crystal, with a breathtaking terminated aquamarine measuring 500x400mm balancing the form at the converse. 

Both rest delicately on a bed of bronzed muscovite mica, creating a substantial piece at 5.43 kg.

Found in the stunning, mountainous Hunza region, in the Gilgit-Baltistan territory of Pakistan, this significant piece has all the makings of a centre piece for any collection. 

Curious about Fluorite?

Fluorite is a mineral composed of calcium fluoride (CaF2) that commonly occurs in a variety of colours, including purple, green, blue, yellow, and clear. It typically forms cubic crystals but can also occur in octahedral or dodecahedral shapes. Fluorite has a relatively low hardness and a glassy lustre, which contributes to its attractiveness.
Fluorite is highly collectible for several reasons:

1. Colour Variety: Fluorite exhibits a wide range of colours, sometimes even displaying multiple colours within a single crystal, as this specimen exemplifies. This variety appeals to collectors who appreciate the aesthetic value and uniqueness of each specimen.

2. Crystal Formation: Fluorite crystals display intricate and well-defined geometric patterns due to their cubic or octahedral structure. These distinct crystal formations are sought after by collectors as they make for visually stunning display pieces.

3. Fluorescence: Many fluorite specimens exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light. This exciting property enhances the appeal of fluorite and contributes to its demand among collectors who enjoy the glow and vibrant colours emitted by these specimens.

4. Rarity: Although fluorite is a relatively common mineral worldwide, specimens of exceptional quality and coloration are relatively rare. Collectors often seek out these rarer and more valuable varieties, making fluorite a sought-after mineral in the collecting community.

The unique colour variations, distinct crystal formations, fluorescence, scarcity of high-quality specimens, and purported metaphysical properties make fluorite highly collectible among mineral enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

Curious about Aquamarine?

Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl and is known for its beautiful blue or blue-green colour. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" meaning water and "marina" meaning of the sea, reflecting the gemstone's stunning resemblance to the colour of the ocean.

There are a few key reasons why aquamarine is highly valued and considered a collectible mineral and semi-precious gem, particularly for those born in March, the birthstone of this month:

1. Colour: Aquamarine's enchanting hues range from pale blue to rich cyan, reminiscent of the refreshing and calming nature of water. This appealing colour spectrum, along with its transparency, makes it a sought-after gemstone for jewellery.

2. Clarity: Aquamarines are typically very clear and have excellent transparency. This characteristic allows light to pass through the gem, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle.

3. Size: Aquamarines can be found in various sizes, and larger specimens are relatively common. This makes aquamarine an ideal choice for statement jewelry pieces, as well as for collectors who appreciate larger gemstones.

4. Durability: Aquamarine has a rating of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, indicating its durability and resistance to scratches. This characteristic makes aquamarine suitable for everyday wear without compromising its beauty.

5. Rarity: While aquamarine is not as rare as some other gemstones, high-quality and intensely coloured specimens can be relatively scarce. Rare, intensely blue stones are especially prized and command higher prices.

6. Symbolism: Aquamarine is associated with numerous positive qualities and symbolic meanings. It is considered a stone of courage, tranquility, and harmony. It is also believed to calm the mind, soothe stress, and enhance communication skills.

7. Historical and cultural significance: Aquamarine has been treasured throughout history, with its roots in ancient civilisations. It was highly valued by the Greeks and Romans, who believed it possessed mystical properties that protected sailors at sea. The gemstone still holds cultural significance in many regions.

The combination of captivating colour, durability, symbolism, historical significance, and rarity contribute to the popularity and collectibility of aquamarine as both a mineral and a semi-precious gem. 

Curious about Mica?

Muscovite mica has a characteristic pearly lustre and is usually transparent or translucent. It is composed of potassium, aluminum, and silicate ions arranged in thin, flat sheets.

Formed through a process known as metamorphism, it typically occurs in igneous or metamorphic rocks, such as granite, pegmatite, and schist. This mineral forms when intense heat and pressure cause the alteration of pre-existing minerals.

Muscovite mica crystals grow in a plate or sheet-like structure due to the arrangement of its ions.

Muscovite mica is highly sought after by collectors due to several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Muscovite mica exhibits a captivating shimmer and luster, often referred to as "book-like" due to its characteristic flat and thin sheets. This aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

2. Rare Colours: While the most common colour for muscovite mica is colourless or pale, it can also occur in shades of pink, green, brown, and even rare black. Collectors are attracted to the variety and rarity of these colours.

3. Large Crystal Size: Muscovite mica can form in large crystals, making it particularly appealing to collectors. These larger crystals allow for more intricate patterns and often fetch higher prices in the market.

4. Industrial Uses: Muscovite mica has several industrial applications, such as insulation, electrical components, lubricants, and cosmetics. This high demand from various industries adds to its collectible value as it becomes scarcer to find high-quality specimens.

5. Geological Significance: Muscovite mica is a valuable mineral for scientists and researchers studying geology. It serves as an indicator of the geological processes that have occurred in specific areas and can provide insights into the Earth's history.

Muscovite mica's unique properties, aesthetic appeal, various colours, crystal sizes, industrial uses such as insulation and thermal resistance, and geological significance make it a highly collectible mineral. 

Examples of mica, fluorite and aquamarine from the Museum Minerals collection:

Muscovite Mica: potassium aluminium silicate hydroxide Harts Range, Northern Territory, Australia	Fluorite: calcium fluoride The Gulf, Emmaville, NSW, Australia