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Ajoite quartz crystal cluster, Messina, SA...rare!
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Ajoite quartz crystal cluster, Messina, SA...rare!
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This is an Ajoite included crystal cluster in very good condition. One side has multiple terminations with many areas of Ajoite inclusions. A natural flat base so crystal sits well. Hematite, chlorite and kaolin present. Excellent tips. Size: 80mm x 60mm x 60mm. (3.25in x 2.5in x 2.5in). Ajoite crystals are sought after by collectors all over the world for their geological rarity and metaphysical healing properties. Ajoite included quartz crystals have only ever occured in one location in the world. They were found deep within the Messina Copper Mine in the town of Messina, South Africa. Messina is in northern South Africa, 12 kilometeres south of Beit Bridge which is the border with neighbouring Zimbabwe. Ajoite included specimens were found as deep as 3 500 feet below the surface of the earth while miners were working at raising ore from which to extract copper for industrial uses.
Beneath ground miners would lay charges late in the day return to surface, after which the charges would blast and the dust left to settle overnight. In the morning miners would return to extract the ore. On certain mornings miners would be greeted by pockets of amazing Ajoite included crystals. Although covered in dust t magnificnce was t to see. Once brought up to the surface and cleaned the crystals were amazing. It was not only the rare mineral Ajoite that was found but 16 other minerals have been found to occur in quartz crystals coming from the Messina Copper mine, making it a unique location indeed. Among the other minerals found with Messina quartz is Papagoite which is a rare dark blue mineral, Chlorite(green), Kaolin (white), Copper(pink), Epidote(light green), Hematite(red, black or orange), Calcite (white and orange). The Messina Copper Mine closed in 1991 due mostly to declining copper prices and high productions costs. The mine is said to be filled with water and will most likely never reopen. Ajoite included crystals have yet to be found at any other location in the world. This Ajoite crystal has not been polished in anyway or cleaned with harsh acids, only well washed with a small brush and mild soap. Many Ajoite included crystals can have the intensity of their colour enhanced through polishing away some of the milky quartz that has come after the Ajoite. Basically bringing the included mineral Ajoite closer to the surface. Ajoite specimens are also sometimes polished to repair broken or chipped tips. Due to the Messina copper Mine being a large scale industrial operation it was not always possible to take enough care not to damage some of the specimens when bringing them up from that deep in the earth.The miners did the best job possible under the circumstances. I prefer to leave the option of polishing up to the owner as once the process has been performed it cannot be reversed w as you can always decide to have some polising work done on your crystal if you desire. High grade natural Ajoite crystals are sought after for their vibrant light blue colour inside the quartz. These specimens are difficult to get hold of. Dealer stocks have declined over the years with most quality specimens landing in private collections with happy owners. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have about this specimen. More pictures are available on request. 
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