Cobalto calcite — vivid pink–purple cavity, Morocco, 258 g

Description

This specimen is cobalto calcite showing a vivid pink–purple central vug surrounded by translucent to semi-translucent crystal faces. The crystal cavity sits in a mixed pale cream, grey and grey-brown host and is presented on a clear stand. The piece measures 11 × 3.5 × 5 cm and weighs 258 g. Surfaces on the crystal cavity are polished to reveal colour and internal translucency; the host retains its tonal mix. Colour and the cavity are the defining visual features of this example. Calcite is calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and is commonly found in a wide range of habits and colours. Cobalto calcite gets its pink–purple tones from cobalt-bearing components that commonly colour calcite specimens from this region.