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Catapleiite

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LMB181173

Catapleiite

Description Tabs

Description
Locality: 
Poudrette Quarry, Mont Saint-Hilaire, Québec, Canada
Class: 
Crystals on Matrix
Size Range: 
Miniature (4.5-7 cm)
Size: 
4.8 × 3.9 × 4 cm
Largest Crystal: 
2.20cm
Description

This is a fairly large (> 2 cm) and thick (3.5 mm) single crystal of catapleiite. Such large  single crystals are not common – even at MSH.

In the first pair of photos I have used reflections to show the overall shape as clearly as I could. The iridescence also shows that most of the pits, grooves and small dings are due to natural processes, not the process of collecting. But the crystal is not “complete all around” – it didn’t grow that way. The crystal obviously sits flat on the matrix and is contacted at the top. It is not a “floater”. There is also some damage on the right side, especially at the top. Nonetheless, this is a pretty good crystal of catapleiite from anywhere.

The reflections/iridescence, while useful for showing the shape and condition of the crystal, do obscure the “actual” color, which is pale beige. As such, the specimen will not be very spectacular when hand held, unless the light hits the crystal “just right”. This is shown in the next three photos. As the specimen was turned, the catapleiite blended more and more into the matrix.

The last photo is an attempt to show what it might look like under ordinary conditions – i.e. with no fiddling with the lighting.

Single item shipping weight (with MIN case) 6.1 oz. For destinations outside the USA, up to a total weight < 8 oz, this can be combined with other items for the same postage.

Within the USA, postage for total weights up to 13 oz, ranges from $4.50 to $6.50 (including packing etc) regardless of destination. Above 13 oz, I will use Priority Mail ($7.25 - $9.20 including packing – varies by destination).

Mineral Data
What's on the rock

Catapleiite

Formula: 
Na2Zr(Si3O9)·2H2O
Strunz: 
9.CA.15
Crystal System: 
Hexagonal
Hardness: 
5.5 - 6.0
Type Locality: 
Låven (Skådön; Lamö; Lamanskjaer), Langesundsfjorden, Larvik, Vestfold, Norway
LMB minerals

Seller Information

Payment options: offline, paypal_wpp, paypal_wps

Seller's terms and conditions

In addition to the standard terms and conditions, please note the following. Almost all IDs are visual. While in most cases the ID is obvious, there may be cases where it is not. If you are doubtful about a particular ID, please ask for more information. Or do not bid! Similarly, if you are not sure that the specimen meets your criteria, do not bid. I have tdone the best I can with the photos. Nevertheless, if you are not happy with a specimen for any reason, I will refund the bid price – but not the shipping costs (unless the fault is clearly mine) – if the specimen is returned. This policy applies even if analysis of the specimen shows that my ID was incorrect. When in doubt, ask - or don’t bid. Note that most crystals at MSH and Varennes are micros - even if on large specimens. Please pay attention to the stated sizes. Any customs duties, fees etc. are the responsibility of the buyer.