Phenakite

specimen number:
2063231

location:
Mt. Antero, Chaffee Co., Colorado, USA

description:
A very choice large colorless translucent semi lustrous grouping of phenakite crystals measuring 2.0 x 1.4 x 0.8 cm in size embedded up on a pegmatite matrix. This is in good condition. One termination is naturally contacted. Very large crystal for the species and locality. This was collected by Nick Golosow around 1976. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

Mt. Antero, located in Chaffee County, Colorado, is famous for producing fine gemstone specimens from high-elevation granite pegmatites and hydrothermal veins. Formed during the Tertiary period within the Mount Antero granite stock, these deposits yielded exceptional phenakite, aquamarine, fluorite, and smoky quartz, often found in pockets near or above the timberline. Discovered in the late 19th century, the rugged peak quickly became a legendary locality for both miners and mineral collectors who braved extreme weather, steep terrain, and short seasons to extract brilliant, well-crystallized phenakite and associated minerals. Today, Mt. Antero remains one of the most celebrated and active field collecting sites for fine American phenakite.

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