Calcite

This specimen is Calcite from Santa Eulalia, Chihuahua, Mexico, measuring 59 x 53 x 30 mm and weighing 89 g. It is drawn from the David Vince Collection. Calcite, calcium carbonate, is among the most common minerals on earth, but Santa Eulalia is a distinguished locality for it. The district is one of Mexico's classic mining fields, long celebrated among collectors for Calcite displaying sharply defined, often unusual crystal forms and habits, arising from the particular hydrothermal conditions associated with the district's lead-zinc-silver mineralisation. It stands as a well-documented example of how an otherwise ordinary species can be elevated by an exceptional locality. At 59 x 53 x 30 mm and 89 g, the specimen is a good cabinet size, suited to display where its crystal form can be appreciated. Calcite is moderately soft and can be scratched or chipped if handled carelessly, so a secure display position is advisable. The specimen's documented provenance is the David Vince Collection.