Amethyst (Redcap) (Specimen #100228)

Mineral(s): Amethyst, Hematite inclusions 

Location: Blue Point Amethyst Mine, McTavish Township, Thunder Bay District, Ontario, Canada 

Size: 7.9 x 5.1 x 2.1 cm 

Provenance: Vagrant Prospects 

Description:  This superb specimen features lustrous, undamaged crystals that appear to ‘glow’ from red hematite inclusions – a highly prized ‘redcap’ specimen. The cluster reflects the crystal morphology of Thunder Bay amethyst, which is basic, as most crystals exhibit only well-developed pyramidal faces. This specimen is destined to become a ‘classic’.  

This is a fine display-quality example of this classic mineral. Thunder Bay amethyst has been known since the 19th century and is remarkable for its colour variety – all shades of purple from pale to deep. It can be coloured by inclusions (most often red, due to included hematite) – the most attractive specimens termed ‘Redcap’ Amethyst. The Thunder Bay District of Ontario is world famous for its distinctive amethyst crystals with several open pit mines operating for gem and mineral specimen material. The Blue Point Amethyst Mine extracts specimens by hand with traditional tools.