Dogtooth Calcite Crystal Specimen Bonsall Moor Derbyshire Genuine Natural Mineral

Description

Overview – Genuine Dogtooth Calcite from Bonsall Moor, Derbyshire

This listing features a 100% genuine Dogtooth Calcite crystal specimen sourced from Bonsall Moor, Derbyshire, one of England’s historically rich mineral regions. The photographs show the exact specimen you will receive, allowing you to appreciate its sharply terminated crystal points, natural colouration, and overall mineral structure.

Every specimen is supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its natural geological origin.

Dogtooth Calcite is a classic and highly recognisable form of calcite prized by mineral collectors. Its name refers to the distinctive elongated, scalenohedral crystals that resemble the pointed teeth of certain mammals. Specimens from Derbyshire are particularly well-regarded for their unique crystal habits and aesthetic charm.

Geological Background – Calcite Formation in Derbyshire

Calcite (CaCO₃ – Calcium Carbonate) is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and forms in a wide variety of geological environments. In Derbyshire, calcite commonly develops within mineral veins associated with hydrothermal activity. The region’s limestone-rich geology created ideal conditions for mineral-rich fluids to circulate through fractures and cavities, depositing calcite crystals over long periods.

Bonsall Moor lies within the heart of the Derbyshire Peak District, an area famous for centuries of lead mining and mineral extraction. Hydrothermal veins cutting through Carboniferous limestone produced large pockets of beautifully crystallised minerals, including calcite, fluorite, baryte, and galena. Dogtooth Calcite from this locality often displays well-formed crystals with excellent clarity and structure due to the stable, slow-growth environment in which it formed.

Mineralogical Characteristics – Dogtooth Calcite

Dogtooth Calcite is defined by its scalenohedral crystal habit, a form composed of steep, elongated triangular faces. These crystals point outward in clusters, giving the appearance of a field of sharp teeth or mountain peaks.

Notable features of Dogtooth Calcite include:

• Elongated, sharply terminated scalenohedral crystals
• Smooth, reflective faces that highlight the mineral’s natural lustre
• Light to warm colouration, often ranging from creamy white to honey or pale amber tones
• Internal clarity variations, sometimes with subtle inclusions or zoning
• Dense, stable crystal growth, making it a robust and attractive display specimen

This mineral habit results from calcite crystallising in open cavities where growth is unobstructed, allowing crystals to elongate freely.

Origin Environment – Conditions of Formation

Dogtooth Calcite forms in low to medium-temperature hydrothermal environments where calcium-rich solutions precipitate calcite onto cavity walls. The mineral grows steadily outward, forming pointed terminations as it accumulates layer by layer. The Derbyshire mineral veins provided ideal conditions for these formations, with consistent temperature, chemistry, and space for crystal development.

Over thousands to millions of years, these cavities became filled with stunning calcite clusters such as the specimen offered here. Many of these deposits were uncovered during historical mining activity, revealing some of Britain’s most beautiful examples of calcite mineralisation.

Aesthetic and Collectible Appeal

Dogtooth Calcite specimens are prized for their architectural crystal geometry and dramatic natural appearance. Their pointed structure and warm coloration make them excellent display pieces for mineral cabinets, home décor, or educational collections. Because each crystal cluster grows uniquely, every specimen is a distinct natural artwork formed entirely by geological processes.

Your Specimen

This Bonsall Moor Dogtooth Calcite specimen was chosen for its striking crystal habit, well-defined scalenohedral points, and pleasing overall structure. The photographs provided show the exact fossil-grade mineral specimen you will receive, and full sizing is presented clearly in the images.

Your purchase includes a Certificate of Authenticity, ensuring that this Dogtooth Calcite is a genuine natural mineral from Derbyshire.