Stilbite with Fluorapophyllite - Lustrous Salmon Twin Bow Tie Aggregate with Glassy Prismatic Accents

Stilbite-Ca (Bow Tie) with Fluorapophyllite-(K) A superb cabinet specimen showcasing the iconic bow tie twinning habit of Stilbite-Ca, presented here in exceptional quality from the famed zeolite deposits of Jalgaon District. The central feature is a striking, bilaterally symmetrical aggregate of intergrown Stilbite crystals, forming the classic bow tie morphology with crisp terminations and elegant curvature. The Stilbite exhibits a richly saturated salmon to peach hue—warm, even, and highly desirable—with a luminous internal character enhanced by notable translucency. Crystal faces are sharply defined and display a silky to vitreous luster, catching light in a soft, glowing manner that accentuates the sculptural form. Complementing the central Stilbite are several well-positioned Fluorapophyllite-(K) crystals. These appear as colorless to faintly milky prismatic forms with excellent transparency and bright, glassy luster. Their vertical, geometric clarity provides a compelling contrast to the more organic, fan-like curvature of the Stilbite, creating a balanced and visually dynamic composition. The overall arrangement is both bold and harmonious—large enough to command attention, yet refined in its crystallography and color interplay. Specimens of this caliber, combining strong color saturation, classic form, and well-integrated apophyllite, are increasingly scarce from this historically prolific region. Provenance further elevates the significance of the piece. Formerly in the collection of Kerry Cooper and later part of the distinguished collection of Dr. David A. Matthews, the specimen carries with it a legacy of thoughtful curation. Dr. Matthews, a chemist and pioneer in pharmaceutical research, played a key role in the development of life-saving antiviral therapies, including foundational work that contributed to treatments for HIV and later COVID-19—an extraordinary intersection of scientific achievement and mineral appreciation. This specimen stands as a quintessential example of Indian zeolite mineralization: elegant, luminous, and deeply collectible, with both aesthetic and historical importance.