Vivianite - Ukraine classic
stock #0656-JM-1553
Kerch Penninsula, Crimea Penninsula
Crimea Oblast,
Ukraine
7.3 x 6.2 x 4.1 CM (cabinet)
price: $350
A very well-crystalized Vivianite from the John Marshall collection, obtained in 1989. This was at one time a great locality for good Vivianites, this one is above average by far with no damage and free standing crystals to 3 CM. The crystals are well-terminated and lustrous, they grew protected in the vug of this Limonite matrix. These vugs were actually the voids inside fossil shells in this iron rich bedrock. The size of the crystals were limited by the size of the fossil voids; this one is especially large and choice. The color is quite dark, nearly black, except with strong light the dark green color is seen. Some of the Kerch Vivianites were unstable and matrix could crumble in a few years. This is absolutely solid and has no issues. Recent finds of Vivianites in both Europe and Brazil have been very impressive yet these older Ukrainian specimens have a somewhat different habit and look. These are of course completely unavailable now and may not be available for a long time - if ever.
Vivianite - radiating needle habit
stock #20.1-253
Kerch Penninsula, Crimea Penninsula
Crimea Oblast,
Russia
5.6 x 3.3 x 2.3 CM (cabinet)
price: $240
new year 2021
Pointed blue green blades and needles of Vivianite in a radiating cluster. Formed on a soft Sandstone matrix this is an older piece (the original labels say "Ukraine") from well before the Russian annexation of this area. The crystals are in fine condition, there is some contacting but no real damage. With good lighting the color is a dark blue to green but otherwise this does look darker. Nicer in person, a good, delicate spray habit example of this famed find.
Vivianite - single gemmy crystal
stock #18.1-105
Tomokoni Mine, Machacamarca District
Potosi,
Bolivia
4.5 x 2.3 x 1.3 CM (miniature)
price: $325
Spring update
A gem clear single crystal with excellent dark green to bluish color, and glass-like luster. Sharp and elegant, this is at its best with some backlight to bring out the inner colors. On the backside some small matrix is adhering, but mostly this is a single, loose crystal. Typical curving of the termination can be seen at some angles. Choice older specimen from 1980 vintage finds, excellent condition.
