This lot consistins of two MSH type locality specimens (normandite and carletonite) plus well-terminated pectolite (a characteristic mineral of MSH). The dimensions given are for the first specimen (normandite). The second specimen (carletonite) is 1.1 x 3.6 x 2.2 cm and weighs ca 9 g. The third specimen (pectolite) is 2.0 x 3.0 x 1.7 cm and weighs 12g
The Poudrette quarry is the TL for normandite. Rarely, free-growing crystals are found in little cavities, but most, like the ones on the first specimen, are embedded in nepheline syenite. This is a fairly typical specimen for MSH. The crystals are naked-eye visible but you will need 10-15X to see them clearly.
FOV in the first photo is (2.4 x 3.6 mm). The second photo (FOV 5.6 x 3.9) is a broader view showing a few longer crystals. The third photo shows the entire specimen. Note: This (micro) specimen has been sawn on two sides.
MSH is also the type and only known locality for careletonite. Some of the carletonite crystals on the second specimen are shown in the next 4 photos. The main crystal in the first (pair?) of these photos is ca 2.5 mm tall. The second pair of carletonite photos shows a bi-color crystal (or crystals) about 6 mm tall. The crystal(s) show very complex growth (etch?) figures. The top of the crystal(s) appears to be terminated. But carletonite has perfect cleavage, so it can be hard to tell. In this case, the presence of small amphibole crystals and the fact that a small, pefect, carletonite crystal (not visible) overhangs this surface in the back, indicates that it is a true termination.
Careletonite is pleichroic. According to the Handbook of Mineralogy: “Pleochroism: Weak; O = very pale blue; E = very pale pinkish brown.” This can be observed by using polarizing filters. In some specimens, the change in color from blue to pinkish brown is quite startling. I would hardly call it “weak”. But it is more unusual to see pink and blue crystals side by side without the help of polarizing filters.
The third specimen features some perfectly formed, water-clear pectolite crystals with sharp, frosted terminations. The next two photos (FOV 6.0 x 4.3 mm) show the best ones (ca 2.7 mm). The small, glassy, crystals near the bases of the pectolite are thick tabular apophyllite.
I did not provide a full-view photos of the pectolite specimen. Hand held, there is nothing to see.
Combined shipping weight (small box) 4.1 oz. Outside the USA, the stated postage and packing rate applies up to a total weight of 8 oz (225 g).
Within the USA, there is a nominal increase of $0.20 for each additional ounce. Above 13 oz, I will use Priority Mail. Up to 16 oz, the “own box” Priority rate is $9.25 (including packing).