Calcite Scalenohedra from Briloner Hartsteinwerke Quarry, Germany

Large cabinet specimen with numerous small cream-colored calcite scalenohedra grown on larger honey-yellow crystals. The specimen comes from Briloner Hartsteinwerke Quarry in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

Calcite Group with Two Generations of Scalenohedra

This striking calcite cabinet specimen displays an interesting two-stage crystal growth. Several larger honey-yellow to beige translucent calcite scalenohedra form the core of the specimen. Parts of their crystal faces remain clearly visible, while broad areas are covered by a younger generation of numerous smaller calcite crystals.

The densely grown small scalenohedra form a lively crystal coating with many reflective faces. This gives the specimen a strongly three-dimensional, almost coral-like appearance. Particularly attractive is the contrast between the larger, partly translucent underlying crystals and the lighter fine-crystalline overgrowth.

Two Generations of Calcite Scalenohedra

The crystallization records at least two growth phases. The larger scalenohedra formed first and were later covered by a younger generation of smaller calcite crystals. This overgrowth can be observed clearly in several areas of the specimen and gives it particular mineralogical interest.

The smaller crystals are mostly closely intergrown. Individual points and crystal faces nevertheless stand out from the dense coating and produce strong reflections under changing light.

Calcite from the Brilon Limestone District

Briloner Hartsteinwerke Quarry in the Hochsauerland district is a documented locality for calcite, including scalenohedral crystal forms.

Measuring 9.0 × 8.0 × 5.0 cm and weighing 344.8 g, the specimen belongs to the cabinet size category. It is well suited to collections focused on German minerals, calcite specimens, carbonates, and regional localities.

A decorative and mineralogically interesting calcite group with two clearly recognizable generations of crystal growth.