Manganocalcite - Zlatograd, Bulgaria | Ref.64

Specimen overview

This manganocalcite from Zlatograd, Bulgaria, forms a dense cluster of pale pink crystals intergrown with one another. The crystals vary in size, with several well-developed forms standing out across the main face of the piece.

The colours range from pale pink to pinkish white. Some areas are slightly translucent, while the best-exposed crystal faces reflect the light more strongly. The rear view reveals a more compact crystallisation and provides a clearer view of the overall structure.

Manganocalcite, also known as mangano-calcite, is a manganese-bearing calcite. The presence of manganese is responsible for its characteristic pink shades.

Provenance

This piece comes from the Zlatograd Mine in Bulgaria. It was collected in 2006.

Dimensions and presentation

The piece measures 107 × 72 × 70 mm (L × W × H) and weighs 554 g.

Stories and legends about manganocalcite:

There are many stories about this mineral and among them:

An ancient legend has it that manganocalcite was considered the stone of faithful lovers. Couples would exchange pieces of manganocalcite as a symbol of their eternal love and mutual devotion.

An old story has it that manganocalcite was placed under children's pillows to protect them from bad dreams. The stone was thought to have the power to transform nightmares into pleasant, soothing dreams, guaranteeing peaceful nights.