Mariposa “Butterfly” Calcite - Mexico
Discover the beauty of the Mariposa “Monarch Butterfly” Calcite from Mexico. This soft material showcases a stunning formation. Specimens can have a red to golden yellow color
Here are some characteristics of Mariposa calcite:
Appearance:
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First generation: Scalenohedral crystals that are coated with a thin layer of brown iron oxide
- Second generation: An overgrowth that completely wraps around the first generation, giving the appearance of a snow-capped mountain range
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Colors: Red, gold, and maroon colors are created by the mineral hematite
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Fluorescent: Some mariposa calcite specimens fluoresce in both longwave and shortwave UV light
- Inclusions: Some mariposa calcite specimens have inclusions of hematite
Notes for this specific specimen:
- I suspect this piece may have been acid washed and I have been hearing this is normal for this material although not always disclosed
- Overall this specimen in very good shape with very minor damage
- Has a white UV reaction with LW/MW/SW UV lights, while underneath, there are small areas of red UV reaction with Shortwave UV only
- Phosphorescent with Longwave UV
- This specific specimen was part of a recently discovered pocket in the El Potosi mine
Size: 7cm x 6cm x 6cm
Weight: 200g
Locality: El Potosi Mine, Level 17, Santa Eulalia, Chihuahua , Mexico
Mariposa “Butterfly” Calcite - Mexico
$25.00