Carminite and Calcite Crystal Cluster Mineral Specimen - Mexico

A classic mineral association from one of Mexico’s most historic and mineralogically diverse mining districts, this specimen combines calcite crystals with carminite perched on its natural matrix, sourced from the famed Mapimí area, Durango, Mexico. The calcite component displays sharp, well-formed crystals, consistent with the wide range of calcite habits found throughout the Ojuela and Mapimí mining district. Calcite at this locality occurs in various habits and associations, and crystallized calcite has been documented with unusual modifications and high overall quality in cavities where secondary minerals develop. Intergrown with the calcite are carminite crystals, a distinctive secondary arsenate mineral originally identified at Ojuela in the early 20th century. Carminite here typically occurs as lustrous, acicular to lath-shaped microcrystals and radiating tufts, often forming striking red to deep reddish aggregates that contrast beautifully against the lighter calcite. This combination reflects the oxidation-zone mineralogy of the polymetallic ores at Mapimí, where circulating fluids deposited successive generations of secondary minerals in fractures and vugs. Specimens of this type are prized not only for their aesthetic contrast but also as representative examples of classic Mexican mineralization. Found in 600 meter level, Mina La Ojuela, Mapimi, Durango, Mexico. 66x56x20mm 52.7g