Calcite

specimen number:
8311268

location:
Manaoshan Mine, Hunan, China

description:

Colorless lustrous crystals of calcite measuring to almost 5.0 cm in size very aesthetic on matrix. In super condition. Crystallized quartz is present as well.

The Manaoshan Mine, situated in the Dongpo ore field of Chenzhou, Hunan Province, China, is a significant polymetallic deposit renowned for its exceptional aesthetic mineral specimens. Geologically, the mine is a skarn-type deposit formed at the contact zone between Mesozoic granodiorite intrusions and Upper Paleozoic limestone and marble beds. This geological environment facilitated the growth of world-class minerals in large cavities, most notably vibrant pink manganoan calcite. Historically, the mine has been a consistent producer of lead, zinc, and silver for several decades, with organized industrial mining picking up pace in the late 20th century. While it remains an active industrial site, Manaoshan gained international fame in the early 2000s when a series of spectacular mineral pockets were discovered, providing the global market with some of the most distinctive and highly prized calcite specimens from the Chinese mineral boom.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.