| Notes: |
An unusually large cluster of Tabby crystals.
A 'tabby crystal' is defined by 2 large flat sides making a wide,
thin, flat crystal.
At first look, the diamond looks to be just 2 crystals, a large and
small tabby overlapped. One side of the crystals reveals the start
of an additional, much smaller tabby crystal that merged with the
crystal above it (see bottom picture below).
All facets and lines on the top of this 2+ inch Herkimer Diamond are
large, clean and complete. Both crystals are single terminated; they
merged together at the other termination point. Technically the crystal
is double terminated.
The back of the crystal has about five facets that have external anthraxolite
markings (see bottom left picture). There is a great deal of internal
anthraxolite as well. This gives that unusual smoky color to a large
area of the crystal. Anthraxolite is actually decayed plant material
that fossilized. It is a mineral related to coal (anthracite).
Healed fractures abound in this tabby crystal. A healed fracture occurred
when the stone formed. Something caused a crack, but the crystal formed
completely around it, healing it. These fractures are completely internal.
The combination of so much internal anthraxolite and fractures add
phenomenal rainbows to the quartz (see bottom picture for a peek of
a rainbow).
This is a very unusual cluster of tabby crystals with a wonderful
feel. It sits nicely in the palm of your hand. |
