Hematite after Pyroxene, Fluorapatite

specimen number:
2341326

location:
Tirrhist, Anemzi, Agoudim Caidat, Boumia Cercle, Midelt, Draa-Tafilalet, Morocco

description:
Thick prismatic terminated crystals of what were once pyroxene to 2.3 x 1.8 x 1.5 cm in size standing straight up from matrix. These are replaced by sparkling specular micaceous tiny hematite crystals. Prismatic reddish-brown crystals of fluorapatite to 2.6 cm in length are scattered nicely throughout. This is in very good condition. From 2018, the specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Jan Erik Larsen.

Located in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco within the Midelt region, the Tirrhist and Anemzi mining districts feature complex alpine geological formations that have grown famous among international mineral collectors for yielding diverse silicate specimens. Within these kinds of environments, mineral replacement can produce fascinating pseudomorphs, such as hematite after pyroxene, where iron-rich fluids alter the original mineral over time, completely replacing its chemistry while perfectly preserving the distinct prismatic shape and external morphology of the precursor pyroxene crystal.

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