Muscovite with Rutile

specimen number:
2063501

location:
Hiddenite, Alexander Co., North Carolina, USA

description:
A cluster of lustrous green sharp muscovite crystals, the largest measuring to 1.5 cm in size, with small reddish needlelike crystals of rutile sparsely scattered throughout. Some attached matrix as seen, still crystallized all around. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

Located in Alexander County, North Carolina, the Hiddenite area is defined by complex hydrothermal veins cutting through regional gneiss and schist, famously discovered in the late 19th century while prospecting for emeralds and other gems. The locality gained renown for producing gem-quality spodumene variety hiddenite along with an exceptional suite of accessory species, including distinctive green muscovite and brilliant rutile crystals embedded in quartz-rich pockets. Mining operations have ranged from historical commercial gem pits to private fee-digging sites operated for rockhounds and collectors. Today, the district remains a celebrated destination for mineral enthusiasts seeking rare gem minerals and micro-specimens from the weathered saprolite and pocket deposits.

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