{"product_id":"calcite-551","title":"CALCITE 'V'-shaped twin","description":"Known as a 'V-shaped' twin and sometimes also called a butterfly twin, this type of Calcite crystal form is exceptionally rare and consequently one of the most sought-after varieties. Historically, the West Cumbrian Iron Mining District in north-west England was the premier source of this crystal habit, but that was way back in the 1890s and through into the middle of the 20th century and so specimens are very rare, only found when older collections are recycled. Around the year 2000 a new source appeared, from China, and specifically from Leiping mine 884 in Guiyang Co., Chenzhou, Hunan. Although similar to their English counterparts, there are subtle differences, including the type of matrix upon which they sit, but like the earlier finds, specimens from this Chinese discovery became instant classics and are now rarely seen available for sale. Perched upon the edge of a somewhat angular bed of iron-rich matrix, two sides of which are entirely coated with small highly elongated pointed Calcite crystals, the main Calcite twin rises to 3.2 cm high and reaches approximately 3.5 cm wide. In immaculate condition, it displays perfectly from both sides and shows a lovely change from one half of the twin with orange Hematite inclusions and the other half clear. Each side of the Calcite twin has a three-sided pyramidal termination and both crystals are extremely bright and glassy. A really incredible twin from this famous early 21st century Chinese discovery.","brand":"Crystal Classics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46933527462063,"sku":"CC62019","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0710\/8516\/2671\/files\/CC62019_Calcite_Leiping_Mine_884_China_21121349098ed.jpg?v=1790074659","url":"https:\/\/crystalclassics.com\/products\/calcite-551","provider":"Crystal Classics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}