Orchid Stilbite Formation – Maharashtra, India – 1.33 lbs

An elegant Orchid Stilbite Formation from Maharashtra, India, showcasing numerous beautifully developed fan-shaped stilbite clusters arranged in a graceful three-dimensional display.

Large radiating crystal rosettes dominate the specimen, with each fan composed of countless bladed stilbite crystals that spread outward in a delicate floral pattern. The soft ivory to creamy-white coloration, combined with a gentle pearly luster, gives the specimen an unmistakably refined appearance reminiscent of blooming orchids.

The specimen displays exceptional depth, with multiple generations of stilbite growth creating overlapping rosettes of varying sizes. Smaller fans emerge between the larger formations, producing a natural layered composition that rewards viewing from every angle. Portions of the underlying matrix remain visible along the reverse, preserving the geological relationship between the crystal growth and its volcanic host.

At approximately 1.33 pounds and measuring roughly 4.5 × 3 × 6 inches, this is an impressive cabinet specimen with outstanding vertical presentation. Its combination of large floral crystal formations, balanced aesthetics, and classic Maharashtra provenance makes it a striking addition to any zeolite or worldwide mineral collection.

Specifications

Mineral: Stilbite

Formation: Orchid (Radiating Fan) Formation

Locality: Maharashtra, India

Weight: 1.33 lbs (approximately 603 grams)

Dimensions: Approximately 4.5 × 3 × 6 inches

Crystal Habit: Radiating fan-shaped bladed crystal clusters

Color: Creamy white to soft ivory

Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Matrix: Natural volcanic basalt matrix

Condition: Natural collector specimen

Display: Large cabinet specimen with exceptional three-dimensional floral structure

Exact specimen shown

About Orchid Stilbite

Stilbite is one of the best-known members of the zeolite mineral group and forms within gas cavities of ancient basalt lava flows. In Maharashtra's famous Deccan Traps, mineral-rich hydrothermal fluids slowly crystallized spectacular associations of stilbite, apophyllite, heulandite, and numerous other zeolite species.

The fan-shaped growth habit seen in this specimen is among the most desirable forms of stilbite. Individual bladed crystals radiate outward from central growth points, producing formations that resemble flowers, shells, or orchids. Large, well-balanced specimens exhibiting multiple overlapping fans are especially prized for their sculptural beauty and display quality.

Maharashtra remains the world's premier source for exceptional zeolite specimens, and orchid stilbite formations have become favorites among collectors for their graceful symmetry, soft luster, and distinctive natural elegance.

Collector Notes

This specimen features:

• large orchid-style fan formations
• beautifully radiating bladed crystals
• multiple overlapping generations of growth
• soft pearly ivory coloration
• exceptional three-dimensional presentation
• graceful floral crystal architecture
• substantial 1.33-pound cabinet size
• classic Maharashtra zeolite locality
• natural volcanic basalt matrix
• balanced display from multiple viewing angles
• an outstanding example of classic Indian stilbite

Perfect for collectors of stilbite, Indian zeolites, orchid formations, fan-shaped crystal specimens, Maharashtra minerals, cabinet display specimens, floral crystal habits, and museum-quality mineral displays.

Professionally packaged and shipped from Colorado.

You will receive the exact specimen shown.

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