Wenshan calcite tabular cluster, 1,586 g

Description

This is a dense, rounded cluster of Wenshan calcite showing pale cream to colourless, translucent to semi-translucent tabular crystals. The crystals are flat-faced and blocky-to-tabular in habit, growing in a closely overlapping, stepped arrangement with subtle warm tan–orange staining concentrated near the top. The specimen measures 17 × 16 × 4 cm and weighs 1,586 g; it is shown on a small clear display stand. Surfaces are intact as visible and the overall appearance emphasises the blocky, tabular growth and the gentle colour variation from cream into near-colourless zones. Calcite is calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and commonly forms a wide range of crystal habits and aggregates; Wenshan material is frequently encountered in tabular and blocky habits, which is consistent with the morphology seen here.