| Notes: |
A powerful, large smoky Herkimer quartz crystal.
The smoky color comes from the black substance referred to as anthraxolite. New evidence suggests this smoky color is caused by hydrocarbons verses anthraxolite. A hydrocarbon is a thick oily substance. The new theory suggests that hydrocarbons moved through the cracks and vug's along with dissolved quartz, salt and other minerals. At some point these fluids provided the material to grow the Herkimer Diamonds. Small flecks of hydrocarbon are trapped inside an area of this crystal. A wispy dark cloud also adds to the deep hue.
This complete Herkimer is double terminated, and all but three facets are smooth. An area where three faces come together holds a hollow. Much of the hydrocarbons must have solidified here and fallen out.
Some clear, crackly inclusions near one point spark vibrant rainbows.
Over two thirds of this fantastic specimen has excellent clarity. It was tough to photograph, as the reflections were strong. The dark areas in the photos are super clear.
It's large size, double terminations, smoky hue, and great clarity make this a powerful Herkimer quartz in it's own right, however, the icing on the cake is the cleansing / charge of this crystal. It absorbed the energy of the total lunar eclipse on Dec. 21, 2010, Winter Solstice. It has been wrapped in muslin since this once in a lifetime event.
This Herkimer quartz weighs 30 grams, or 150 carats! |
