Fluorite Cubes on Matrix Tanzanite The spectacular display of colors

The spectacular display of colors these specimens display can be formed by two different geological processes: the oxidation of pyrite causing ultra-thin layers of iron oxide to form on the surface

where some truly impressive specimens like this very rarely emerge from the mines

Found in a variety of shapes and colors

and is one of the more common gems although pieces of exceptional hue and clarity are considered fairly rare and can be extremely valuable

Azurite has been sought after since ancient times as a gem and for use in blue pigment

Fluorite Cubes on Matrix Tanzanite The spectacular display of colorsFluorite is one of the most variable of all crystalline minerals, occurring in shades of blue, green, purple, red and many other colors corresponding to their physical makeup and conditions when the mineral was formed. The name fluorite comes from its use as a flux, or chemical cleaning agent, in iron smelting and other metallurgy. Pure fluorite is clear, but most specimens have vivid color due to various impurities and are often fluorescent. With a