Dogtooth Calcite Crystals Dulcote Quarry Shepton Mallet Somerset UK Specimen

Genuine Dogtooth Calcite – Dulcote Quarry, Shepton Mallet, Somerset

This striking Dogtooth Calcite crystal specimen from Dulcote Quarry, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, UK, is a genuine British mineral carefully selected for crystal form, clarity and presentation. The photograph provided shows the exact specimen you will receive. Please refer to the images for full sizing and scale details.

Your crystal includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card confirming its genuine origin and mineral identification.

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Mineral Species & Crystal Structure

Calcite is a calcium carbonate mineral with the chemical formula CaCO₃. It belongs to the carbonate mineral group and crystallises in the trigonal division of the hexagonal crystal system.

Mineral Name: Calcite
Chemical Formula: CaCO₃
Mineral Group: Carbonate
Crystal System: Trigonal
Hardness: 3 on the Mohs scale
Cleavage: Perfect rhombohedral cleavage in three directions
Lustre: Vitreous to pearly
Transparency: Transparent to translucent

“Dogtooth Calcite” refers to sharply pointed scalenohedral crystal forms. These elongated, tapering crystals resemble canine teeth, hence the name. The scalenohedral habit is one of calcite’s most recognisable growth forms and is highly valued by collectors for its dramatic geometry.

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Geological Formation – Dulcote Quarry, Somerset

Dulcote Quarry lies within the Carboniferous Limestone of the Mendip Hills, a region known for significant mineralisation and secondary cavity growth. The calcite crystals formed in open fractures, joints and vugs within limestone host rock.

During post-depositional geological processes, mineral-rich groundwater circulated through these cavities. As carbon dioxide levels and temperature conditions shifted, calcium carbonate precipitated from solution, gradually building the scalenohedral crystals layer by layer.

The Mendip Hills mineralisation is associated with:

• Hydrothermal activity linked to Variscan tectonics

• Lead-zinc ore systems

• Secondary mineral growth in limestone voids

Associated minerals in the area may include:

• Galena

• Sphalerite

• Fluorite

• Baryte

• Quartz

Dogtooth calcite from Dulcote Quarry is especially appreciated for its well-developed crystal faces and classic British locality provenance.

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Crystal Characteristics & Notable Features

This specimen may display:

• Sharp scalenohedral “dogtooth” points

• Transparent to milky crystal bodies

• Layered growth zoning

• Natural matrix attachment

Calcite crystals from Dulcote often range from colourless and clear to creamy white or pale honey tones, depending on trace elements and growth conditions. Internal zoning or faint colour banding can reflect subtle changes in mineral chemistry during formation.

Calcite also exhibits strong birefringence due to its crystal structure. In clear examples, light passing through the crystal can appear doubled, a distinctive optical property of the species.

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Collectibility & British Mineral Heritage

Dogtooth Calcite from Dulcote Quarry represents a classic example of British carbonate mineralisation. Specimens from named localities in Somerset are highly desirable among collectors of UK minerals.

Collectors value this material for:

• Distinctive scalenohedral crystal habit

• Documented Mendip Hills locality

• Strong display aesthetics

• Geological connection to historic British quarrying

Dulcote Quarry has produced fine calcite specimens for many years, making pieces from this site a respected addition to mineral cabinets and educational collections.

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Authenticity & Presentation

This Dogtooth Calcite crystal has been carefully chosen to showcase the natural form and geological character of Dulcote Quarry material. The image provided shows the exact specimen you will receive.

Included with your purchase is a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, confirming this is a genuine Calcite specimen from Dulcote Quarry, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, UK.

A classic example of Mendip Hills calcite mineralisation, this specimen combines sharp crystal form, geological significance and recognised British locality provenance in one authentic display piece.