Elite Museum-Grade Apophyllite with Stilbite - Nasik, India

A stunning museum-grade association of apophyllite and stilbite from the renowned mineral locality of Nasik, India. This impressive specimen measures 4.5 inches across and weighs 1.56 kg, featuring sharp, well-defined cubic crystals of pale green apophyllite contrasting beautifully with peachy-pink stilbite. The apophyllite crystals display exceptional transparency and luster, with pristine crystal faces forming a dramatic stepped aesthetic. The subtle green tint in the apophyllite is particularly desirable, and the crystals show excellent terminations. The stilbite presents in classic peachy-salmon hues, providing an elegant natural contrast to the apophyllite

Apophyllite:

• Crystal System: Tetragonal
• Mineral Class: Phyllosilicate (sheet silicate)
• Chemical Formula: KCa₄(Si₈O₂₀)(F,OH)·8H₂O
• Crystal Forms: Commonly shows {001} basal pinacoid, {100} prism, and {111} pyramid faces

Stilbite:

• Crystal System: Monoclinic
• Mineral Class: Tectosilicate (framework silicate), specifically in the Zeolite group
• Chemical Formula: NaCa₄(Si₂₇Al₉)O₇₂·28H₂O
• Crystal Forms: Typically shows sheaf-like or bow-tie aggregates

This particular specimen beautifully displays the characteristic crystal habits of both minerals - the sharp, cubic-appearing crystals of apophyllite (despite being tetragonal) and the peach-colored, radiating crystals of stilbite. The contrast between these two different crystal systems and mineral classes creates part of what makes this association so aesthetically appealing.

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