Green Fluorite Cubic Cluster

Description

An attractive cluster of intergrown, translucent pale green Fluorite cubes from the Yaogangxian Mine. Overlapping crystal faces and stepped growth give the piece depth and changing reflections from each angle.

This 91 g collector specimen from Yaogangxian Mine in Hunan Province, China, brings together several translucent green Fluorite cubes in a compact, three-dimensional cluster. The larger upper crystal rises above smaller intergrown cubes, while natural internal features and reflective faces become visible under different lighting. It is displayed on a clear acrylic plinth in a protective thumbnail box.

Please inspect them for its natural crystal surfaces and condition. Handle the plinth and protect the Fluorite from knocks.

The cubic habit gives the specimen a strongly geometric character. The visible faces and edges show how separate crystals meet and overlap within the group. Larger faces establish the outline, while smaller growth adds detail between them. The balance between exposed cubes and intergrown areas is a useful feature when comparing this piece with others of the same mineral.

Fluorite is calcium fluoride and crystallises in the cubic system. Cubes and octahedra are among its familiar forms, but intergrowths, modified faces and changes during growth can produce much more complex outlines. This combination of recognisable geometry and considerable variation makes Fluorite a rewarding mineral to collect by both crystal habit and locality.

Fluorite can be colourless or show a wide range of colours, sometimes within one specimen. Transparency, crystal thickness and illumination influence how those colours appear. Its glassy faces contrast with more textured areas and any accompanying matrix. Colour zoning and fluorescence are separate properties; a particular response under ultraviolet light should only be expected where it has been recorded for the individual piece.

The recorded origin is Yaogangxian Mine, Hunan Province, China. Within a collection of Fluorite specimens, this locality gives the piece a geographical identity alongside its particular crystal habit and natural setting.

The specimen measures 6 × 4 × 3 cm, with a recorded weight of 91 g. Its compact presentation makes it suitable for a boxed mineral collection, where the individual crystals and their association can be appreciated at close range.

Fluorite has well-developed cleavage and should be supported by its stable matrix or mount. Avoid pressing on projecting cubes or corners. A secure indoor position allows the natural geometry and colour to be appreciated while keeping the exposed growth protected.