Cavansite on Stilbite-Ca - India

Ex. Dr. Stephen Smale Collection This superb specimen features vibrant cavansite aggregates on stilbite-Ca, from the world-famous Wagholi Quarries, Pune District, Maharashtra, India—the locality that has defined this species for collectors worldwide. The piece carries distinguished provenance from the Dr. Stephen Smale Collection, adding historical and collectible significance to an already exceptional mineral association. Cavansite, a rare calcium vanadium silicate, is instantly recognizable for its unmistakable, electric blue coloration—one of the most iconic hues in the mineral kingdom. While the species was first described from Oregon, virtually all fine cavansite specimens (well over 99%) originate from Wagholi, making this locality synonymous with the mineral itself. This small cabinet specimen hosts several intensely saturated, glowing blue cavansite aggregates, beautifully perched atop snow-white bladed stilbite-Ca, with subtle beige heulandite beneath, all resting on basalt matrix. The largest cavansite aggregate measures approximately 1.0 cm across, offering strong visual impact and excellent contrast against the pristine white zeolite matrix. The overall presentation is clean and uncluttered, allowing the cavansite to stand out vividly without distraction. The specimen measures 8.2 × 4.3 × 3.2 cm and sits fairly on its own, though a custom base would further enhance its display. Condition is excellent, with sharp aggregates and no notable damage. Beyond its visual appeal, this piece represents a species of finite supply. Ongoing reports indicate that cavansite production at Wagholi has become extremely limited, with quarrying increasingly restricted due to flooding and urban expansion around Pune. As a result, high-quality examples—especially with strong color, good contrast, and solid provenance—are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire. Dr. Stephen Smale, from whose collection this specimen originates, is renowned both as a mineral collector and as one of the most accomplished mathematicians of the 20th century, awarded the Fields Medal (1966) and the Wolf Prize in Mathematics (2007). Specimens from his collection are noted for their quality, selectivity, and long-term curatorial care. This is a classic Wagholi cavansite, combining bold color, excellent contrast, and elite provenance—an ideal addition to an advanced species, Indian locality, or zeolite-focused collection.