Chalcedony & Stilbite
Awesome color contrast on this example of chalcedony and stilbite. The chalcedony appears jet black, although it is just clear yet coating the dark black and stalactitic basalt rock. The almost orange colored stilbite appears quite striking in contrast. Both minerals have excellent luster, representing the high quality of the piece. From Jalgaon, India. Acquired 2023.
We recommend purchasing the large adjustable mineral stand to accompany this piece. Please contact us with any questions.
Chalcedony is a captivating variety of quartz prized by collectors for its wide array of colors and formations. It is a cryptocrystalline form of silica, composed of fine intergrowths of quartz and sometimes moganite, giving it a smooth, waxy luster. Sometimes the surface can form very small druzy crystal faces, such as seen here with Black Chalcedony, that have a dazzling glitter effect.
Chalcedony can exhibit various hues, including white, blue, gray, yellow, orange, and even shades of pink and green, often influenced by trace impurities. Its translucence and sometimes opaque nature, coupled with its ability to take a high polish, make it a popular choice for gemstone and jewelry enthusiasts. Collectors are drawn to its diverse forms, such as agate, jasper, carnelian, and onyx, each with distinct patterns and colors. With its rich history and aesthetic appeal, chalcedony remains a beloved and versatile addition to any mineral collection.
Stilbite is a commonly collected zeolite mineral known for its distinctive crystal formations and association with quartz and other zeolites in multi-mineral specimens. Typically found in a range of colors from colorless to white, peach, or pale yellow, stilbite often forms in fan-shaped or radiating clusters that showcase its distinct luster. It commonly double terminates, forming the appearance of a bowtie. This mineral commonly occurs in volcanic rocks, where it develops in cavities and vesicles alongside other zeolites and minerals. Its unique morphology and aesthetic appeal make stilbite a popular choice among collectors.