Reviews
1.26" Clinochlore Pseudomorph After Quartz - Russia
This is a glittering, 1.26" clinochlore pseudomorph after quartz that was collected from the Pelingichey deposit of Prepolar Ural, Russia. The clinochlore almost completely coats the exterior of these quartz crystals while still maintaining the quartz structure. It has been mounted to an acrylic display base with mineral tack.
About Clinochlore
Clinochlore is a mineral from the chlorite group, known for its distinctive shades of green, ranging from light to deep olive, though it can also appear in gray, yellow, or brown hues. This mineral is characterized by its foliated, plate-like structure and a pearly to glassy luster, often forming in thin, flexible sheets or flaky masses. Its layered, “leafy” appearance is typical of chlorite minerals, giving clinochlore an attractive, somewhat scaly look.
It commonly forms in metamorphic environments, particularly in magnesium- and iron-rich rocks like serpentine or dolomitic marbles that have undergone metamorphic changes. It is often found alongside minerals such as talc, garnet, and serpentine and may also form in hydrothermal veins. With a Mohs hardness of 2–2.5, clinochlore is relatively soft, making it unsuitable for jewelry but valued by collectors for its beautiful luster and unique structure.
Clinochlore deposits are found globally, with notable sources in the United States, Switzerland, Russia, and Pakistan. Occasionally, rare, transparent, gem-quality crystals of clinochlore are discovered, known as “kammererite,” which display vivid violet to pinkish-red colors, adding to clinochlore’s appeal among mineral enthusiasts.
Clinochlore is a mineral from the chlorite group, known for its distinctive shades of green, ranging from light to deep olive, though it can also appear in gray, yellow, or brown hues. This mineral is characterized by its foliated, plate-like structure and a pearly to glassy luster, often forming in thin, flexible sheets or flaky masses. Its layered, “leafy” appearance is typical of chlorite minerals, giving clinochlore an attractive, somewhat scaly look.
It commonly forms in metamorphic environments, particularly in magnesium- and iron-rich rocks like serpentine or dolomitic marbles that have undergone metamorphic changes. It is often found alongside minerals such as talc, garnet, and serpentine and may also form in hydrothermal veins. With a Mohs hardness of 2–2.5, clinochlore is relatively soft, making it unsuitable for jewelry but valued by collectors for its beautiful luster and unique structure.
Clinochlore deposits are found globally, with notable sources in the United States, Switzerland, Russia, and Pakistan. Occasionally, rare, transparent, gem-quality crystals of clinochlore are discovered, known as “kammererite,” which display vivid violet to pinkish-red colors, adding to clinochlore’s appeal among mineral enthusiasts.
$25
SPECIES
Clinochlore & Quartz
LOCATION
Pelingichey Deposit, Komi Republic, Prepolar Ural, Russia
SIZE
1.26 x .88"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#380349
