Zirconolite var. Polymignite in Pegmatite from Håkestad Quarry, Norway

Mineralogically interesting small cabinet specimen featuring black, lustrous zirconolite crystals of the historic variety polymignite in a contrasting pegmatite matrix. The specimen comes from Håkestad Quarry near Tjølling, Larvik, Norway, and displays the rare mineralization on several sides.

Zirconolite var. Polymignite from Håkestad Quarry, Norway

This mineralogically interesting small cabinet specimen displays several black to blackish-brown zirconolite crystals of the historic variety polymignite within a coarse-grained pegmatite matrix. The partly elongated, tabular to prismatic crystal sections are visible on several sides of the specimen and stand out clearly from the lighter matrix minerals because of their strong luster.

Particularly striking are the black crystals embedded in pink feldspar, together with additional crystal sections in the gray to whitish matrix. Their varied positions make it possible to observe the crystal habit, color, and luster of the zirconolite from several angles.

Rare Mineral Specimen from Håkestad Quarry

Håkestad Quarry near Tjølling in the Larvik area is known for complex pegmatite mineralization and for a range of uncommon oxide minerals. This specimen is therefore especially interesting as a reference and documentation piece for collectors of rare minerals, Norwegian pegmatites, and systematic mineral collections.

The specimen measures 6.0 × 5.0 × 4.0 cm and weighs 109.3 g. In addition to the black zirconolite crystals, the matrix shows gray, white, and pink feldspar zones that create a varied contrast of color and texture.

A characteristic and collectible specimen of a zirconolite variety that is only rarely encountered on the mineral market.