Cervandonite-(Ce) crystals from Wanni Glacier, Binntal, Switzerland – miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen originates from the famous Wanni Glacier locality in Switzerland's Binntal and features Cervandonite-(Ce) in a light-colored alpine matrix. Small dark crystals are visible across the surface, creating an attractive contrast against the pale host rock. Although the crystals are modest in size, individual crystal aggregates can be recognized on the matrix. The specimen represents a rare member of the complex rare earth mineral group from one of the world's most important alpine mineral localities.
Geology & Origin
Cervandonite-(Ce) is an extremely rare rare earth arsenite mineral that was first described from the Binntal region. The Wanni Glacier locality is one of the classic occurrences of this species and is internationally renowned for its remarkable diversity of rare minerals. The mineralization formed within alpine fissures during hydrothermal processes that concentrated rare elements in rock cavities and fractures. Specimens from this locality are highly valued by collectors due to both their rarity and the exceptional mineralogical significance of the Binntal region.