Calcite Crystal Cluster Chihuahua Mexico Joseph Simon Collection Rainbow XLS

This highly detailed Calcite crystal cluster from Chihuahua, Mexico comes from the lifelong private mineral collection of Joseph Simon of Rainbow XLS. The specimen is accompanied by Simon’s original collection label identifying it simply as “Calcite Crystals — Chih., Mexico,” preserving its original locality attribution and collection history.

This is an especially attractive miniature specimen with considerably more visual complexity than its size suggests. Multiple translucent white to pale cream Calcite crystals rise from a densely crystallized matrix, including prominent broad crystals with sharply defined terminations and visible growth striations. Between the larger crystals are numerous tiny sparkling points that create a contrasting drusy texture across much of the specimen.

The Calcite ranges from nearly colorless and translucent in areas to milky white and cream. Small naturally occurring tan, golden-brown and darker mineralized areas are also visible throughout the cluster, providing additional contrast. Because Joseph Simon’s original label identifies only Calcite, these associated areas are not being assigned a separate mineral identification.

Several of the larger crystals display the distinctive geometry for which Calcite is prized by mineral collectors. The combination of larger individual crystals, smaller secondary crystallization and contrasting matrix creates an exceptionally dimensional specimen that changes considerably as it is viewed from different angles.

Calcite is calcium carbonate with the chemical formula CaCO3. It belongs to the carbonate mineral group, crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system and has a Mohs hardness of approximately 3. Calcite is also known for perfect rhombohedral cleavage and its remarkable diversity of crystal habits.

Chihuahua is one of Mexico’s important mineral-producing states and includes numerous historic mining districts and localities that have produced notable Calcite specimens. Because Simon’s original collection label records the locality only as “Chih., Mexico,” the listing preserves that broader Chihuahua attribution rather than assigning the specimen to a particular mine without supporting documentation. Calcite is well documented from numerous localities throughout Chihuahua.

Mineral: Calcite

Chemical Formula: CaCO3

Mineral Class: Carbonate

Crystal System: Trigonal

Mohs Hardness: Approximately 3

Color: Colorless to translucent white and pale cream with naturally occurring tan and darker mineralized areas

Locality: Chihuahua, Mexico

Measurements: Approximately 1 3/4 inches across at its widest point and approximately 1 1/4 inches high

Weight: Approximately 0.8 ounce

This specimen comes from the lifelong private mineral collection of Joseph Simon, proprietor of Rainbow XLS in Woodland Hills, California. Simon assembled mineral specimens from localities around the world and preserved identification and locality information with his collection.

The original Joseph Simon collection label accompanies the specimen and reads:

Calcite Crystals

Chih., Mexico

The surviving Rainbow XLS provenance and original locality label significantly strengthen the history of this specimen compared with an unidentified mineral cluster whose collecting history has been lost.

Traders Loan & Jewelry acquired the Joseph Simon mineral collection and is offering the specimens individually, one at a time. Each is a separate mineral from his collection, and once a particular specimen is sold, that example will no longer be available from us.

The specimen is housed in its original small mineral display box with foam insert and identification label. It is an appealing choice for collectors of Mexican minerals, Calcite crystal habits, historic private collections and miniature mineral specimens.

Safe Handling:

This is a natural mineral specimen intended for display and collecting purposes. Handle with reasonable care, wash hands after handling, and avoid creating or inhaling dust from the specimen. Keep out of reach of small children and pets.

Mineral Identification Disclaimer:

Every effort has been made to accurately identify and describe this specimen using available reference materials, labels, provenance, and careful visual examination. While I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a professionally trained mineralogist or gemologist, and inadvertent errors in mineral identification, locality attribution, or other descriptive information may occasionally occur. Collectors are encouraged to carefully review all photographs and use their own knowledge and judgment when evaluating any specimen. By purchasing this specimen, the buyer acknowledges that the identification and description represent my best good-faith assessment and are not a professional laboratory determination