Description
These calcite crystals, variety manganoan, are from the Huaron Mining District of the Huallay District, Pasco Department, Peru.This area contains 15 mines including the Alimon which is where most mineral specimens come from. The mines are large commercial operations for the extraction of silver and silver related minerals. Twenty-one different mineral species are found in this area including several exceptional gangue minerals including calcite. Calcite normally contains the elements Ca and C but this piece is rich in the element Mn or manganese which gives it a light pink hue.. This piece consists of a small remnant sphalerite matrix that is covered with attractive arboresent crystal formations. The crystals have rhombohedral and recrystallized habits. This piece measures 2 x 1 1 1/2 x 7/8 inches or 50 x 38 x 22 mm
