Detailed information
Species
Fluorapatite
Dimensions
27 x 38 x 18
mm
Locality
Panasqueira Mine Covilhã, Castelo Branco District Portugal
Condition
No recorded repairs
The complex of mines known collectively as the Panasqueira Mines are host to an astonishing variety of well crystallised minerals. These mines have become a true European Classic since first opening in 1898. The mines are still in production and one particular favourite species amongst collectors is Fluorapatite. This gorgeous, rather mouth-watering small miniature is formed from three intergrown crystals, the largest is 1.5 cm long by 1.5 cm wide between prism faces at their widest point. Each smoky sea green hexagonal prism has quite gemmy outer faces which grade to frosted translucent central cores. The prism faces are mirror smooth while across the base, micro-crystals of pale creamy tan Siderite coat one prism's lower face. A beautiful miniature Fluorapatite from the Panasqueira Mines at Covilhã in Castelo Branco District, Portugal. The accompanying video shows this Fluorapatite in both white LED light and ultraviolet light, where is fluoresces a delicate light to mid lilac.