Barkevikskjaer, Langesundsfjorden, Larvik, Vestfold og Telemark, Norway

Type Location

6.8 x 6.6 x 4.2 and 5.1 x 3.5 x 2.2 cm

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Ex. Steve Pullman purchased from Minerals Unlimeted, 1978

(K,Na,Ca)_7.5(Mn,Mg)₄₉ Si₇₂O₁₆₈(OH)₅₀·nH₂O

These two specimens are not exactly from the type location but from a small island which is only a couple kilometers from another small island, Laven, which has essentially the same geology and is the actual type location for both Astrophyllite and Aegirine. However, the island of Laven is protected and no collecting is allowed. The Astrophyllite is present as flat, reddish brown colored crystals with a high, metallic like luster which is directional. Both of these specimens were in the same box in Steve Pullman's collection with just the one label which seems to refer to the larger specimen. The 3 1/2 in the bottom right corner of the back of the label (last picture) is the size of the specimen in inches. Steve used this notation often for his specimens; the C refers to his opinion as to the quality of the specimen which is another notation he commonly used. At first, it was unclear if the smaller specimen was from the location. But upon close examination, at the end of the specimen where there is a little bit of the Syenite matrix, there is a small amount of Astrophyllite (see the blue arrow in the last mineral photo - which admittedly is a bit difficult to distinguish in the photo). The real mystery here is why Astrophyllite was not mentioned on the label.

Condition: Fairly Good

Flaws: Most of the crysta;s on the larger specimen are not terminated. The smaller specimen is in very good condition.

This mineral is also found in the following galleries: Minerals From Europe | Phyllosilicates | Inosilicates | Rare Minerals | Minerals Priced Between 50 and 99 Dollars