Manganocalcite & Quartz – Madan, Bulgaria | Ref.29

Specimen description

This specimen combines pale pink manganocalcite with an important quartz crystallization. The manganocalcite forms several clearly visible groups distributed above and between the quartz crystals.

The quartz develops as numerous fine, transparent to translucent crystals covering a large part of the specimen. The manganocalcite displays soft tones ranging from pinkish white to pale pink, with variations depending on the crystals and lighting.

The photos and video allow the distribution of both minerals and the different crystal reliefs to be observed in detail.

Manganocalcite

Manganocalcite, or manganese-bearing calcite, is calcite enriched in manganese, generally represented by the formula (Ca,Mn)CO₃. Part of the calcium is replaced by manganese within the crystal structure.

The presence of manganese is responsible for the characteristic pink coloration of this variety of calcite, whose intensity can vary from one specimen to another.

Provenance

This specimen comes from Madan in southern Bulgaria, in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains. This historic mining area is closely associated with lead and zinc ore deposits, accompanied by numerous crystallizations of quartz, calcite and other minerals.

The specimen was collected in 1995.

Dimensions and presentation

Length: 95 mm.

Height: 35 mm.

Weight: 420 g.