Description
Calcite Crystals – Tattersall Quarry, South Wales, UK
This beautiful Calcite crystal specimen from Tattersall Quarry, South Wales, is a genuine and carefully selected mineral example from the respected Alice Purnell Collection. The photographs show the exact piece you will receive, allowing you to purchase with complete confidence. This specimen includes a Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card, confirming it as a natural mineral example.
Full sizing is shown in the photographs for accurate scale and display planning.
Mineral Type & 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. Calcite is well known for its wide range of crystal habits, commonly forming rhombohedral crystals, scalenohedrons (often called “dogtooth spar”), prismatic growths, and crystalline masses.
Specimens from South Wales quarries frequently display well-formed crystalline faces with attractive lustre. Calcite typically exhibits vitreous to pearly lustre and can range from transparent to translucent depending on growth conditions and inclusions. Natural colour variations include colourless, white, honey, cream, pale yellow, or subtle earthy tones influenced by trace elements and associated minerals.
Calcite has perfect rhombohedral cleavage and a Mohs hardness of 3, making it softer than quartz but ideal for cabinet display specimens. Many Calcite crystals show interesting optical properties such as double refraction (birefringence), a characteristic feature of clear Calcite.
Geological Origin – Tattersall Quarry, South Wales
Tattersall Quarry is located in South Wales, a region historically known for its rich geological diversity and mineral deposits. The area’s Carboniferous limestone formations provided ideal conditions for the development of Calcite crystals within cavities, fractures, and vugs in sedimentary rock.
Over geological time, mineral-rich fluids circulated through the limestone host rock, depositing calcium carbonate and allowing crystals to grow in open spaces. This natural process often results in sharply defined crystal faces and aesthetically pleasing clusters suitable for collectors.
South Wales quarry specimens are sought after by UK mineral collectors for their regional significance and classic British mineral heritage.
Collecting & Display Appeal
Calcite remains one of the most collected mineral species worldwide due to its crystal diversity, geological importance, and educational value. This specimen is ideal for:
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Mineral collectors expanding a UK locality collection
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Students studying carbonate minerals and crystal systems
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Display cabinets featuring British quarry specimens
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Thoughtful gifts for geology enthusiasts
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Interior décor with a natural mineral aesthetic
Its natural crystalline form makes it a striking standalone display piece, whether placed in a collector’s cabinet, office setting, or curated shelf display.
Provenance – Alice Purnell Collection
This specimen comes from the Alice Purnell Collection, adding an additional layer of provenance and collectability. Collection-origin pieces are often valued for their documented history and careful curation.
The crystal is a genuine, untreated natural specimen. It has not been artificially enhanced or altered. It is presented exactly as formed by nature and carefully selected for quality and display appeal.
Authenticity & Purchase Confidence
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100% genuine natural Calcite crystal
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Tattersall Quarry, South Wales, UK locality
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From the Alice Purnell Collection
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Includes Certificate of Authenticity lifetime guarantee generic card
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Photograph shows the exact specimen you will receive
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Full sizing available in photos
A fine example of classic British Calcite, combining geological interest, locality significance, and timeless mineral display appeal.
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