Peruvian "Terrarium" Mineral Cluster - 4.79"
Peruvian "Terrarium" Mineral Cluster - 4.79"
Minerals come in all shapes and sizes here on planet Earth. This stunning specimen is a perfect example of that—a small cluster of crystals that nearly resembles organic plant life. Make no mistake though, this mineral cluster was formed solely through geologic processes deep underground.
This specimen is a 4.79" "Terrarium" mineral cluster made primarily of axinite and epidote. Sharp gray-brown axinite makes up most of the mass while pockets of green epidote dot the tiny landscape. It was recovered in Peru.
📸 A brilliant example of a "terrarium" mineral cluster
A stunning mineral cluster
Though these crystal clusters may look organic, they are actually 100% geologic! Each Peruvian "Terrarium" mineral cluster contains beautiful green epidote which appears to bloom overtop sharp axinite.
Each mineral cluster comes from Peru, a country home to world-famous mines and crystals. These terrific stones make fantastic showcase pieces in any rock collection and the tiny crystals are sure to delight any lucky enough to see them up close.
Due to the unique shapes and colors of these specimens, each Peruvian "Terrarium" Mineral Cluster is a one-of-a-kind item with its own set of photographs. No two will be exactly alike. Each specimen also ships with a certificate of authenticity.
We are taking special care to ensure they are well packed and ready to ship, but you may expect some minor wear to occur in shipping. This is normal and precautions have been taken to avoid any major damage to the crystals.
You can see all the currently available mineral clusters below!
More about Axinite and Epidote
In Peru's geologically rich Bolognesi province, a treasure trove of minerals sits just below the Earth’s surface. Minerals like axinite and epidote mingle together to form stunning clusters, a joining of mineral processes that is rare, unique, and beautiful.
Axinite is readily identifiable from its sharp, almost axe-like crystals, hence the mineral’s name. The presence of transition metals in the crystals can cause strong paramagnetism, also aiding in identification. Axinite most often appears in a dusky brown color, but brighter pinks, blues, greens, or even colorless specimens are also known. In recent years, axinite has been prized as a gemstone, due to the unusual colors the gem can take. There are three types of axinite found in gems: ferroaxinite (iron-rich), manganaxinite (manganese-rich), and magnesioaxinite (magnesium-rich).
Epidote was first documented in the 18th century, its name derived from the Greek “epidosis,” which means to increase, in reference to one side of the crystal’s prism being longer than the others. In color, epidote appears green with occasional streaks of yellow like a pistachio, hence its early name pistacite.
The mineral’s formation is spurred by hydrothermal activity and occurs alongside other such minerals in igneous rocks. When faceted, epidote makes for a striking gemstone, with notable prized sources being in Pakistan, Austria, and some sites in North America.
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