An simply outstanding Mendip specimen with a large crystal lined cavity inside a Manganese Oxide mass. The void contains choice Cerussite and Hydrocerussite some in twins and others with reticulated forms, nestled on a sparkling Calcite. This Quarry is famed for the rare Lead minerals that are found here in association with the Manganese deposits in the Carboniferous Limestones. The location is unique and has been the source of at least eight new minerals. That said most of the specimens are not often well crystallized or esthetic. This is an exception as the Lead minerals are well formed and make an attractive display contrasting inside the cavity. The Merehead Quarry now known as the Tor Works Quarry began to be noticed about 80 years ago and is a world class source of many other rare species.
Calcite over/replacing Aragonite
stock #16.1-364
Merehead Quarry (Torr Works), Cranmore
Somerset,
England
9.2 x 7.1 x 5.5 CM (cabinet)
price: $440
new year 2021
A very unusual but also very esthetic specimen from the famed Merehead (Tor Works) Quarry in the Mendips of England. This locale is famed for the rare lead oxychlorides found in the Carboniferous Limestones. With all the attention to these minerals the more common Carbonate species are less well-known. This hosts a cluster of hexagonal Aragonite forms that are fully encased by and mostly replaced by Calcite in crystalline over-growths. The matrix is mostly limestone with a small remnant mass of Manganese oxides that are well-known from this locale. I have not seen anything like this piece which is from the Les Hitchings collection. An unusual and attractive English specimen with a remarkable form.
