Wuyi Fluorite Specimen (Zhejiang, China)

Wuyi Fluorite Specimen - Shilonggang (石龙岗) mining area, Shuxi Subdistrict (熟溪街道), Wuyi (武义县) Wuyi Fluorite Field, Jinhua (金华市), Zhejiang (浙江省), China (中国)

This specimen of Fluorite (CaF2) represent the classic mineralogical output of the Wuyi mining district in Zhejiang Province, China. Formed within high-temperature hydrothermal veins, these crystals are the result of fluorine-rich fluids cooling within the fractures of volcanic host rock. The deep, saturated violet and royal purple hues seen in this piece are caused by "colour centres" within the crystal lattice, where trace elements or natural radiation have altered the way the mineral absorbs light. This "inky" purple is the signature of Wuyi fluorite, making it a staple for any collector of Asian minerals.

This specimen is a dense, massive crystal cluster that emphasises the sheer depth of colour. It displays a high vitreous lustre, meaning it reflects light with a glass-like shine that highlights the internal cleavage planes characteristic of the cubic system. Because the crystals are tightly packed, the specimen has a heavy, durable feel and serves as a perfect "hand specimen". The transition from the crystalline purple to the darker, more rugged matrix at the base provides a natural pedestal, making it an excellent display piece for a shelf or desk where the light can catch the translucent edges.

Origin: Shilonggang (石龙岗) mining area, Shuxi Subdistrict (熟溪街道), Wuyi (武义县) Wuyi Fluorite Field, Jinhua (金华市), Zhejiang (浙江省), China (中国) (click here for Mindat info)
Mineral type: Fluorite (CaF2)
Size: ~3(L) x 3.50(H) x 3(W) cm (see scale cube), 63 g