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.
Anapaite - crystals in Fossil Clam Shell
stock #22.1-235
Kerch Penninsula, Crimea Penninsula
Crimea Oblast,
Ukraine
4.8 x 4 x 2.8 CM (miniature)
price: $490
Post Tucson 2022
A fine miniature of bright green crystal clusters of Anapaite nestled in a fossil clam shell. A modern classic, these fossil shells from the Crimea in Ukraine are unique in the world and are considered the best examples of this specie. They have become scarce in recent times. The crystals are lustrous, translucent and in excellent condition, contrasting with the black inside of the vug. A very choice piece that displays well and has a custom made acrylic base that holds this at an esthetic angle. Far better than the average of the find and a very good value.
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.
