Calcite and Amethyst - Minas Gerais, Brazil | Ref. 436

This association of calcite on amethyst comes from the Minas Gerais region of Brazil and from an old collection. The specimen has a vertical composition dominated by two large calcite crystals rising above a group of amethyst crystals.

The calcite crystals are distinguished by their elongated shape, pointed terminations and fine striations visible on some of their faces. Their pale colour, with areas of varying translucency depending on the lighting, contrasts clearly with the amethyst at their base.

The lower section consists of intergrown amethyst crystals of varying sizes. Several broad, well-defined points are surrounded by smaller crystals, particularly around the base of the calcite. The purple colour appears more or less pronounced depending on the area, the orientation of the specimen and the lighting conditions.

The main feature of this association is the contrast in size between the two large calcite crystals and the amethyst crystallisation surrounding them. The specimen is presented on an acrylic stand, which supports its vertical structure.

It measures 125 mm in length, 90 mm in width and 135 mm in height. It weighs 1,360 g including the stand.

The name amethyst comes from the Ancient Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated”. In Antiquity, this variety of quartz was associated with protection against drunkenness, a historical belief that gave the mineral its name.