Zakharovite and ussingite are rare world-wide and very rare at MSH, where they are found only in the sodalite xenoliths. Ussingite crystals are considered rare world-wide, but are relatively common at MSH (modulo the overall rarity of the mineral here). This specimen features some sharply formed crystals of two distinct habits. But I find this mineral exceedingly hard to photograph, so my photographs may not make the habits of the crystals – both blocky and pointy – very clear. In any case, the crystals are crowded together in more or less parallel arrays – as is typical.

The first pair of photos (FOV 6.7 X 4.3 mm) shows some of the better zakharovite (left) and blocky ussingite crystals (right). Ussingite is triclinic, but these crystals look almost orthorhombic.

The second pair of photos is a close-up of the blocky crystals. On the left, they look darker than they really are. On the right, they are somewhat discolored by zakharovite.

The third pair of photos (FOV 6.75 X 4.55 mm) shows an area of lighter crystals of a pointy habit. Unfortunately, the crystals are inter-grown, and my photos don’t show the individuals very clearly.

The most accurate colors are probably in the full-view photo. The well- crystalized lilac ussingite is mostly in the center, surrounde by orange to nearly brown zakharovite. The gray matrix is sodalite.

Single item shipping weight (with mini-TN case) is 2.9 oz (82 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 for total weights up to 13 oz ranges from $4.25 to $6.50 (including packing etc) regardless of destination. Above 13 oz, I will use “own box” Priority Mail. The rate, including packing, varies by destination from $7.25 to $9.50.