Parisite-(Ce) on Calcite Matrix from Muzo, Boyacá, Colombia

A honey-yellow to amber-colored parisite-(Ce) crystal sits prominently in a pale calcite matrix. The well-formed main crystal reaches approximately 8 mm and displays several clearly visible crystal faces. A second, smaller parisite crystal measuring about 2–3 mm complements the specimen.

The main crystal is transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. Its warm yellow to amber-brown color contrasts clearly with the white to light gray calcite matrix. Its protected position within a recess in the matrix draws immediate attention to the crystal.

Parisite-(Ce) from Muzo, Colombia

Muzo is located in the Department of Boyacá and belongs to Colombia’s western emerald belt. The region is best known for its emeralds, but it also produces a range of associated minerals, including calcite, dolomite, pyrite, and parisite-(Ce).

Parisite was scientifically described in the 19th century based on material from Muzo. Muzo is therefore regarded as a classic locality and type locality for parisite-(Ce). This origin gives specimens from the area particular mineralogical and historical significance.

This specimen shows an approximately 8 mm main crystal and a smaller secondary crystal on natural calcite matrix. The main crystal has a tabular to short-prismatic habit with clearly visible crystal faces. Its transparency, warm coloration, and contrast with the pale matrix define the appearance of the piece.

With dimensions of 5.5 × 4.0 × 3.5 cm, this is a small cabinet specimen. The total weight is 104.1 g. Its particular appeal lies in the transparent to translucent main crystal, the additional smaller crystal, the natural calcite matrix, and its origin from the type locality of parisite-(Ce).