Anatase with Quartz

specimen number:
2063682

location:
Matskorhae, Hardangervidda West, Ullensvang, Vestland, Norway

description:

A sharp lustrous deep blue double terminated crystal of anatase measuring 0.7 x 0.4 x 0.3 cm in size perched nicely about three quarters of the way up from the bottom of a gemmy single terminated crystal of quartz. This is in great condition. Classic Norwegian specimen for the species.

Located within the high-mountain plateau of Hardangervidda West in Ullensvang, Vestland, Norway, Matskorhae is world-renowned among mineral collectors for producing some of the finest quartz and anatase specimens ever discovered. Geologically, the area features metamorphosed Precambrian basement rocks cut by Alpine-type cleft fissures, which opened during ancient tectonic movements and allowed hydrothermal fluids to circulate and deposit mineral crystals. Mineral collecting at Matskorhae began in earnest in the mid-twentieth century as alpine-style collectors braved harsh weather and remote terrain to extract sharp, lusterous, dark blue to pitch-black double-terminated crystals of anatase resting on clear quartz matrices. Anatase itself is a naturally occurring titanium dioxide mineral that crystallizes in the tetragonal system, typically forming steep dipyramidal or tabular habit crystals within these alpine cavities. Due to the exceptional clarity, color, and geometric perfection of the crystals found in these pockets, Matskorhae anatase specimens remain highly sought after by museums and private collectors worldwide.

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