Jacinto de Compostela
Cuarzo is a mineral with formula SiO₂, in the Silicatos (Tectosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Domeño, Valencia, Valencia, España and joined the Terrium collection in 2010.
Description
One main deep-red biterminated crystal on an earthy matrix, with a well-defined prismatic shape and clean faces. Two other smaller biterminated crystals as well. A very aesthetic piece with strong contrast against the matrix, highlighting the quartz's natural luster.
History of this specimen
I bought this piece from a collector at my first La Unión fair. He explained to me that he was selling his minerals because his children had no interest in continuing with his hobby. And I also found out that this is quite common among collectors: no one carries on with what cost them so much.
About the locality
Domeño, in the province of Valencia, is part of a series of Triassic outcrops that have historically been rich in gypsum and ferruginous sediments. It is in these environments that Jacintos de Compostela crystallize, embedded in Keuper clays and gypsum. Although the term has been used for other localities as well, such as Aragón or La Rioja, Domeño has become renowned for the quality and sharpness of its crystals. Exploitation was mainly artisanal and sporadic, often carried out by collectors or local seekers. Today, many of the classic areas are exhausted or protected, which has increased the historical and mineralogical value of old specimens such as this one.
Technical data
- Catalogue No.
- 0402
- Internal reference
- T0017
- Composition
- SiO₂
- Name
- Cuarzo
- Variety
- Jacinto de Compostela
- Group
- Silicatos (Tectosilicatos)
- Matrix
- Yeso
- Mine
- Domeño
- District / Municipality
- Valencia
- Province
- Valencia
- Country
- España
- Size (cm)
- 8
- Weight
- 47.7 g
- Acquired
- 2010
- Etymology
- From the German «Quarz», an old word of uncertain, probably Slavic, origin. “Jacinth” is a historical gem name derived from the Greek «hyakinthos».
- Quality
- Buena
- Value trend
- Estable
Related specimens
- Abellaíta — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Abernathyita — España
- Aerenita — España
- Aerinita (fibrosa) — España
- Afghanita — Afganistán
- Afghanita — Afganistán