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CC1662

'CHARLESITE'

'CHARLESITE'


Size:
62 x 33 x 23 mm
Regular price $1,500.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $1,500.00 USD
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Detailed information

Species Charlesite, Ettringite group
Dimensions 62 x 33 x 23 mm
Locality Wessels Mine, Hotazel Kalahari Manganese Fields South Africa
Condition No recorded repairs
This rare, choice specimen from the celebrated Wessels mine in the Kalahari Manganese Fields, South Africa is previously documented as the chemically complex Ettringite group mineral Charlesite, but the identification of Charlesite has recently been called into question. Charlesite was generally assumed to be the paler yellow form of Ettringite group minerals in the mines, but in reality visual identification alone is not an adequate method of distinguishing them. Other visual features used to distinguish Charlesite crystals include extensive gemmy areas, lustrous faces, and excellent terminations all of which are seen in this specimen. This fine miniature specimen displays a parallel to sub-parallel group of prismatic crystals individually measuring to 2.5 cm in length. In some specimens chemical zonation from Sturmannite to Charlesite is claimed. This attractive pale sulphur yellow specimen of what was once believed to be 'Charlesite' from the mine might more correctly be termed Ettringite group but its historic labelling is kept to highlight its difference to more typical Ettringite or Sturmannite.

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I bought a specimen but it is not what I expected or was damaged in transit. Can I return the specimen?

Inevitably, sometimes things don't go as expected. Whether the specimen is damaged in transit or the identity is incorrect, we are aware that this can result in the return of a specimen.If your specimen is damaged during shipping, it is vitally important to take a photo of the packaging and specimen in situ. By recording this, we get an idea of the nature and possible reason behind the damage and will be able to process the return much faster.If you discover that the mineral species has been misidentified, we require details of the method of identification in order to understand why you believe this to be the case. If the identity is in question but no formal analysis has been attempted, Crystal Classics will assess the situation on a case-by-case basis. In some instances, this may mean the specimen is sent for analysis to determine the identity.In any scenario where a specimen is analysed and the species in question is not present on the specimen, we will provide a full refund.If you feel that the specimen was misrepresented in any way, please ensure you make contact with us within the 30 day grace period for resolution.In all instances, please ensure that you call or e-mail us immediately, prior to the return of a specimen to Crystal Classics, so that we can advise regarding the returns procedure. Failure to contact us prior to the return of a specimen may lead to the rejection of your return.Shipping costs of all returns are to be covered by the customer, unless the specimen was damaged in transit or if the identity is incorrect.