Elmwood Calcite on Matrix with Sphalerite

This dramatic calcite specimen on matrix from the historic Elmwood Mine features a stark contrast in its crystal components. On the left side, shiny metallic sphalerite crystals sprout from the limestone matrix, seemingly in competition with a fine grouping of translucent, glittering calcite crystals to the right. The star of the show, however, is the gorgeous and imposing doubly-terminated, twinned calcite crystal positioned vertically on the dividing line between these contrasting crystal fields.