Grossular and Leucite crystals from Cava Toscopomilo, Pitigliano, Tuscany, Italy – 1 unique flat
This flat with Grossular and Leucite crystals from Cava Toscopomilo near Pitigliano in Tuscany contains a varied collection of characteristic mineral specimens from a well known volcanic locality in central Italy. The specimens display typical associations of Leucite and Grossular within a volcanic matrix and provide a good impression of the material from this interesting occurrence.
Leucite is one of the characteristic minerals of alkaline volcanic rocks and is particularly appreciated for its distinctive crystal habits. Grossular, a member of the Garnet group, complements the mineralization and adds further mineralogical interest to many specimens. This flat offers an attractive overview of the diversity found at this classic Italian locality.
Geology & Origin
The Pitigliano area in Tuscany is known for its volcanic rocks formed during the relatively young volcanic activity of central Italy. Numerous collectible minerals developed within these alkaline volcanic rocks. Leucite is one of the characteristic indicator minerals of these rocks, while Grossular may occur in cavities and mineralized zones under suitable geological conditions. Cava Toscopomilo is appreciated among collectors for its diverse mineral assemblages and interesting volcanic mineralization.
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embedded or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |