Rhodochrosite with fluorite and pyrite — 347 g

Description

Deep pink rhodochrosite forms the main mass of this 347 g specimen, accompanied by purple fluorite and scattered glittering pyrite across the surface. The piece measures H 8 × W 8 × D 5 cm and shows strong rhodochrosite colour with areas of violet fluorite and small metallic pyrite specks visible to the eye. The fluorite on this specimen is UV reactive. The overall specimen presents as a compact piece with mixed minerals closely associated on the same host.

Mineral context

Fluorite is calcium fluoride (CaF2) and commonly forms cubic crystals. Many fluorite specimens fluoresce under ultraviolet light, although UV behaviour varies between specimens.