Detailed information
Species
Axinite-(Fe), Epidote
Dimensions
35 x 33 x 28
mm
Weight
22 g
Locality
Bourg d'Oisans Isère, Rhône-Alpes France
Condition
No recorded repairs
The mountainous area around Bourg d'Oisans in Isère, Rhône-Alpes, France is the all-time classic area for the beautiful mineral Axinite - where the first high quality crystals were found, way back in the late 1700s. Of course, Axinite is now a group name, and most of the crystals from Bourg d'Oisans are Axinite-(Fe). This superb miniature specimen consists of a richly coloured aggregate of interlocking sharp, bladed Axinite-(Fe) crystals from which protrude several prismatic crystals of murky green Epidote. The Axinite-(Fe) crystals are extremely glassy and an exquisite deep clove-brown colour. The individual bladed crystals reach up to 1.5 cm in length. On close inspection many of the Axinite-(Fe) crystals show edge wear in the form of small 'nicks' on the edge of the razor-sharp crystal edges, but this is extremely common in this mineral due to its brittleness. The specimen is mounted on an acrylic base for display. Overall, this is a beautiful miniature of a true Alpine classic.
