Description

This is a truly remarkable alabandite specimen. It is comprised entirely of parallel-growth alabandite crystals and, with a height of 7 cm, it is in the upper realm of size for this uncommon mineral. The top crystal is a sharp octahedron with cubic faces measuring 3.2 cm. The larger, lower crystal shows some curvature and beautiful growth patterns. As is usual for the crystals from this find, the alabandite formed without attachment and is not broken – its growth was interrupted – all of the surfaces show crystallization patterns. The last photo shows, in the centre and lower portions, the crystallization pattern on the back where this alabandidt grew against the graphite. This alabandite is accompanied by graphite and small stilbite crystals. Supported to stand vertically as photographed, this is an impressive alabandite – amazing for ths species.