In general, it is not possible to visually distinguish pyrophanite from ilmenite at MSH. But when the crystals are this red, it ain’t ilmenite!

Pyrophanite forms rosettes as large as 3 cm at MSH (see Lapis July/August 2000, p. 61). The crystals on this specimen are much smaller, but very beautiful.

The first photo (FOV 2 x 1.75 mm) shows the nicest crystals on the specimen. The two larger ones are each about 1.1 mm in maximum diameter. Hanging above them, like a tiny chandelier, is a cluster of ancylite-(Ce). These crystals are in a small, fairly deep cavity. It is difficult to get a good angle of view for photography. The next pair of photos (FOV 2.1 x 2.3 mm) is another attempt.

The next pair of photos (FOV 3.0 x 1.85 mm) shows the other pyrophanite aggregate on the specimen. The  main crystal is about 1.15 mm This aggregate probably bigger than the one shown in the first three photos, but it is partly obscured by little “dog-tooth: calcite crystals, some of which can be see in these two photos. They are fairly attractive in their own right.

Also attractive is another aggregate of ancylite-(Ce) growing on the calcite. This is shown in the next pair of photos (FOV2.45 x 2.9 x mm). The individual ancylite  crystals are small – ca 0.9 mm – but quite gemmy and lustrous.

Single item shipping weight (no case) is 3.1 oz (87 g). For shipments outside the USA, up to a total weight < 8 oz (225g), this can be combined with items from this or other auctions for the same postage.

Within the USA, postage increases by about $0.20 per ounce. Above 13 oz, I will use Priority Mail ($9.25 including packing).