Analcime from Namibia: Rare, knob-shaped crystals from the Streep Mine
Namibia is known worldwide for its exceptional minerals and gemstones. The analcime crystals from the Streep Mine are a real insider tip among collectors. These rare, knob-shaped crystals often occur in combination with smoky quartz or amethyst and impress with their white to transparent appearance. In this blog post, you'll learn everything you need to know about analcime from Namibia—from its formation and properties to the special features of this fascinating mineral.
What is Analcime?
Analcime (also called analcime) is a rare mineral from the zeolite group. It typically crystallizes in cubic or knob-like crystals and is known for its milky-white to translucent color. In Namibia, analcime crystals are particularly common intergrown with smoky quartz, amethyst, rock crystal, and phantom quartz. These combinations make each piece a unique collector's item.
Typical characteristics of Analcime from Namibia:
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Color: White to white-transparent, occasionally very clear
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Crystal shape: Cube-shaped, knob-shaped, often grown in groups or on quartz
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Shine: glass to greasy shine
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Transparency: From milky to clear
Location: The Streep Mine in Namibia
The Streep Mine is one of the most well-known deposits for high-quality analcime crystals in Namibia. Located in the heart of one of the country's most mineral-rich regions, it is particularly famous for its exceptional quartz and amethyst deposits. Here, the coveted analcime crystals form in volcanic cavities and geodes, often in spectacular intergrowth with other minerals.
Formation of analcime crystals
Analcime forms in volcanic rocks, particularly in cavities of basalts and other igneous rocks. Hot, mineral-rich solutions circulate through the rock, depositing silicates and sodium. Under the right conditions, analcime crystallizes in its typical cubic or nub-like shape. Combinations with quartz, amethyst, or phantom quartz occur when the minerals deposit simultaneously or sequentially in the same cavities.
Properties and characteristics of Analcim
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Crystal system: Cubic
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Hardness: 5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale
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Density: 2.2 g/cm³
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Rarity: Analcime is rare worldwide, especially in such clear and aesthetic forms as from Namibia.
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Aesthetics: The knob-shaped, white to clear crystals on colored quartz make each piece unique.
Combinations with other minerals
A special highlight of the Analcime finds from Namibia are the spectacular intergrowths with:
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Smoky quartz: The contrasts between the dark quartz and the white analcime nubs are particularly attractive.
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Amethyst: Violet amethysts with white analcime crystals are highly sought after by collectors.
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Rock crystal and phantom quartz: Here, too, the clear to milky analcime crystals provide a special eye-catcher.
Care and storage
Although Analcime is relatively robust, it should still be handled with care:
- Clean the crystals only with lukewarm water and a soft brush.
- Avoid aggressive cleaning agents or strong temperature fluctuations.
- It is best to store your pieces in a place protected from dust and direct sunlight.
Conclusion: Analcim from Namibia – a highlight for every collection
Analcime crystals from the Streep Mine in Namibia are truly rare, captivating with their unique appearance and spectacular combinations with quartz, amethyst, and other minerals. Each piece tells the story of millions of years of geological processes and is a true highlight for any mineral collection.
Discover the fascinating world of analcime crystals from Namibia in our online shop – and secure your own unique piece from the Streep Mine!
