Cassiterite on Quartz

This particular piece is a superb quality Cassiterite from the standpoint of luster, sharpness and the fact that there are TWO distinct twinning habits on the same specimen. An impressive, classic, sharp, lustrous group of black to gemmy golden color cyclic twinned crystals sit atop prismatic white Quartz matrix. The most interesting aspect of the piece is the fact that there are a few RARELY seen “drillbit” habit twinned groups. It’s not common to find two different twinning habits of Cassiterite on the same specimen from Viloco, and the “drillbit” habit is next to impossible to find in my experience.

If you’re a collector of Cassiterites or Bolivian minerals, this would make a superb addition to your collection. Very little damage and really striking for the species and the locality. The Viloco Mine (sometimes called Araca) for many years has stood as one of the top Cassiterite localities in the world. This mine is still active today and bears the unique distinction of producing the only GEM quality (facet grade) Cassiterites from any mine in Bolivia Considering the millions of tons of tin ore that Bolivia has yielded, the fact that only one mine ever produced transparent Cassiterite is remarkable.

Specimen # BOL711B164