Garnet (var. Chromian Grossular) with Vesuvianite, Jeffrey Mine, Quebec, Canada
The Jeffrey Mine in Quebec was in continuous operation for almost 130 years and is considered the most prolific specimen-producing locality in Canada. It is especially well known to collectors for the superb specimens of grossular and vesuvianite (Mineralogical Record 44(4):375-417). This TN is a very rare combination of both: gemmy, translucent to transparent, apple-green chromian garnet (var. Grossular), is complemented by nicely contrasting, greenish-yellow, lustrous Vesuvianite. A druse of cryptocrystalline vesuvianite is sprinkled atop the striated garnet faces. These present textbook habit, with both dodecahedron and trapezohedral forms. Edgework is sharp, and the crystals are complete all around. The black microcrystalline material is of indeterminate identification; however, it is surmised to be black chromite. This is the only specimen of its kind posted in the public archives of Mindat (Specimen ID: XHX-VUL). The world-class Jeffrey deposit is no longer producing. Good specimens are increasingly difficult to find. Should any come to market, they are quickly snapped up. A true and unusual collector’s item!
