Erythrite with Heterogenite, Sara Alicia Mine, San Bernardo, Álamos Municipality, Sonora, Mexico
Erythrite historically has been called “cobalt bloom” because crystals with the radiating acicular habit resemble a flower bloom, and it is known as an indicator of other cobalt minerals. The little-known Sara Alicia Mine is famous for its beautiful crystallized erythrites. They are very uncommon in the marketplace and are much sought after by collectors. This specimen is no exception, with striking bright pink to magenta, acicular radiating crystal clusters of erythrite, in association with the rare cobalt oxide heterogenite, which forms brownish-black micro-crystalline botryoidal masses. Crystals of erythrite are rare, and radiating acicular masses even more so, especially sourced from this locality with the heterogenite association. This specimen appears quite old; however, it is in remarkably good condition.
