This Specimen has been sold.
5.1" Calcite Formation - Morocco
This is a nice specimen of calcite stalactitic formations. The calcite looks to have coated iron rich mineral projections from the wall of a cave, leaving the crystal coated matrix with a web-like appearance. This specimen has a very aesthetic appeal, for the remaining matrix leaves a natural base for display.
Stalactites form when water, seeping through rock, reaches an opening such as a cave or tunnel. Once this mineral-rich water (calcite in this case) precipitates out of the rock wall/ceiling, it leaves behind a crystal as the precipitate builds with each drop of water.
Stalagmites are likely to form from this process as those drops land on a cave floor, since the drops from the ceiling will still contain high mineral content. As long as water keeps flowing, it will continue to precipitate into stalactites and stalagmites.
Stalagmites are likely to form from this process as those drops land on a cave floor, since the drops from the ceiling will still contain high mineral content. As long as water keeps flowing, it will continue to precipitate into stalactites and stalagmites.