A striking, museum-quality cluster of sharp white scalenohedral calcite crystals from Iraí, Brazil, featuring a dynamic, radiating “jackstraw” arrangement on contrasting matrix. This specimen showcases the classic sculptural beauty and pristine formation that has made Iraí calcite world-renowned among collectors.
🔁 AKA (Also Known As)
- Dogtooth Calcite
- Scalenohedral Calcite
- Nailhead Calcite (in some habits)
- Calcite Flower (collector nickname)
🌟 Highlights
- Exceptional scalenohedral crystal form with sharp, elongated points
- Classic Iraí locality—highly sought after and increasingly scarce
- Frosted, semi-translucent white crystals with soft luster
- Aesthetic multi-directional growth (“jackstraw” or radiating habit)
- Strong display presence with natural contrast on matrix
- UV reactive (often glowing orange to pink depending on wavelength)
📏 Specifications
- Mineral: Calcite (CaCO₃)
- Crystal Habit: Scalenohedral
- Color: Milky white to translucent
- Luster: Vitreous to slightly frosted
- Transparency: Translucent
- Formation: Cluster on matrix
- Origin: Iraí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Dimensions: See product listing photos for exact measurements
🧾 Detailed Description
This superb Iraí calcite specimen features a captivating cluster of sharply terminated scalenohedral crystals rising in a dynamic, sculptural formation. Each crystal displays the classic elongated “dogtooth” geometry, with clean edges and subtle frosted faces that diffuse light beautifully.
The arrangement is especially striking—crystals intersect and radiate outward in a natural architectural composition, creating depth and movement from every viewing angle. The contrasting matrix beneath enhances the visual drama, grounding the bright calcite while emphasizing its luminous quality.
Specimens from Iraí are prized for their aesthetic balance and crystal quality, often described as among the most displayable calcites in the world. This piece embodies that reputation—clean, sculptural, and highly collectible.
🌍 Locality
Iraí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
A globally recognized mineral locality, Iraí is especially famous for producing world-class calcite and amethyst specimens from volcanic geode systems.
🌋 Geological Formation
These calcites form within volcanic basalt cavities (geodes), where mineral-rich fluids precipitate calcite crystals in open spaces over time. Often associated with amethyst, quartz, and celadonite, these environments allow for exceptional crystal development.
🔬 Mineralogy Information
- Chemical Formula: CaCO₃
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Hardness: 3 (Mohs)
- Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral
- Fluorescence: Often orange to pink under UV light
🔑 Key Features
- Iconic scalenohedral (“dogtooth”) crystal structure
- Radiating, three-dimensional cluster growth
- Clean terminations and minimal damage
- Classic basalt-hosted Brazilian formation
- Strong collector and display appeal
🕰 Geological Era
Formed during the Mesozoic Era, associated with the Paraná flood basalt volcanic events (~130–135 million years ago), which created extensive geode-bearing formations in southern Brazil.
🪨 Mineral Class
Carbonate Minerals
🧱 Rock Formation
Hosted in basaltic volcanic rock, often within geodes lined with quartz or amethyst crystals.
📖 Historical & Folklore Notes
Calcite has been used since ancient times in construction, carvings, and optical tools (notably Iceland spar for double refraction). In collector culture, Iraí calcite gained prominence in the late 20th century and became highly desirable due to its sculptural forms and limited availability bursts.
❤️ Why Collectors Love It
- Recognized “classic” locality with strong reputation
- Sculptural, artistic crystal arrangements
- Increasing scarcity from Iraí finds
- Affordable entry into high-end mineral aesthetics (relative to rarity)
- Exceptional display presence from every angle
🖼 Display & Care Instructions
- Display in a stable, vibration-free location
- Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture or acids (calcite is reactive)
- Clean gently with dry air or soft brush
- Avoid direct handling of delicate terminations
📦 Shipping & Handling
- Professionally packed using foam, double-boxing, and stabilization
- Fully insured shipping
- Tracking provided upon dispatch
- Handled with extreme care to preserve crystal integrity
🔮
A Metaphysical Nod
Some believe calcite is a powerful amplifier of energy and clarity, often associated with cleansing stagnant energy and enhancing focus.
- Chakras: Crown, Third Eye
- Properties: Clarity, amplification, energetic cleansing, spiritual growth
- Suggested Mantra: “I see clearly and move forward with purpose.”
White calcite in particular is often linked to higher awareness and mental clarity, making it a favorite among those seeking a sense of calm and alignment.
🏔 Why Trust Wandering Stones
At Wandering Stones, every specimen is hand-selected for quality, authenticity, and story. We work directly with trusted global sources to bring you exceptional minerals that meet both collector standards and aesthetic excellence.
You’re not just buying a crystal—you’re adding a curated piece of Earth’s history to your collection.
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