Lecontite on Ammineite
Pabellon de Pica, Chanabaya,
Iquique Prov, Tarapaca Reg, Chile
34 cm wide x 21.5 cm tall
A vibrant blue crystalline ammineite matrix supports a cluster of sharp, translucent blue/white crystals of lecontite. The lecontite crystals exhibit a geometric, angular structure, creating a striking contrast with the oceanic sparkling base of ammineite. The overall composition showcases an intricate natural beauty and vivid coloration, emphasizing both the solid and delicate qualities of both species.
This specimen comes from a small group of the finest known examples of these rare species; they are the only known examples to be found together.
Only a few crystals of lecontite had previously been found in one location in Honduras. All of the known crystals are opaque white crusts. Ammineite is a recently discovered species. It was first described in 2008 and has only been found in 3 locations; Chile is the type locality.
When these specimens were first brought to light, they were thought to be entirely different species, visually identified as bloedite on krohnkite. We were unsure of this analysis and had them independently tested through XRD (X-Ray Diffraction).
Through this analysis, we discovered not only were these not bloedite on krohnkite, but species far rarer; lecontite on ammineite. The testing of these was very complicated as both species are so rare. There is some discussion among mineralogists if the ammineite is actually salammoniac. These two species are chemically very similar. Both are natural forms of ammonia chloride. We believe these are definitively ammineite due to the vivid blue color. Sallammoniac has always appeared clear or white.
Ammineite is known to have been found in Pabellon de Pica, Chile, within a unique copper mineralization, likely connected to natural bat guano deposits. This microbiological life produces several unique nitrogen components. These components are known to be a part of mineralization. The Pabellon de Pica is, for now, the only known contact zone of a copper deposit and a young sub-maritime guano deposit.
This group of specimens were discovered in 2017 in the remains of what appears to be a now dried-up body of water. These exceptional crystals were found near the center beneath a crust of dried detritus. There have been discussions as to whether or not these were found near a mining operation, which may have caused these crystals to form. It may also be possible that water from the mine was added which initiated and fostered the growth of these crystals. This specimen brings forward the question of the origins of natural crystals and the role of humans and natural forces. We may never know the truth of their origin, but we know these are among the rarest of all mineral species.