“Leifite” at MSH is often borderline leifite-eirikite. Both species may be found on the same specimen. In general, qualitative EDS does not suffice for definitive ID. Hence “leifite group”. The two minerals are known only from a handful of alkaline intrusions. They are both moderately rare at MSH.

This specimen features numerous, acicular, but not fibrous, hexagonal crystals on very dark rhodochrosite the color of dried blood. There are also some gray elpidite crystals (to ca 1.3 cm) on the “bottom”.

The first pair of photos (FOV 4.8 x 6.9 mm) shows some of the best formed crystals (to ca 5 mm). They are reminiscent of micheelsenite – but they are not. (Were this micheelsenite, it would be one of the best specimens known!) 

The second pair of photos (FOV 6.4 x 4.5 mm) is a close-up of some of the rhodochrosite crystals. The prominent crystal on the right measures 1.8 mm tip-to-tip. Most of the rhodochrosite has an off-white crust – probably a carbonate or fluorocarbonate. (I haven’t tested it – no doubt it is amazingly rare ;-))

The third pair of photos (FOV 4.6 x 6.7 mm) shows small greenish-gray elpidite crystals to ca 2.2 mm on rhodochrosite. Elpidite at MSH has many habits, ranging from beautiful to ugly. This little group is fairly attractive, but elpidite is just an accessory on this specimen. The larger crystals are shown in the next photo. 

The next photo shows the largest (1.3 cm) elpidite crystal. (It is on the “bottom” of the specimen). 

Single item shipping weight 3.3 oz (95 g). For non-USA destinations, up to a total weight < 8 oz (225 g), this can be combined with other items for the same postage. Within the USA, each additional ounce costs about $0.20; for a total weight of 13 oz or more, I will use “own box” Priority Mail ($9.25), which good up to 16 oz.