Kernite (twin)

LOCATION:

U.S. Borax Mine, Kramer Borate deposit, Boron, Kramer District, Kern Co., California, USA

DESCRIPTION:

A lustrous, transparent unusually-blocky crystal of Kernite from the type locality, which is twinned on {011}. Kernite is a relatively rare hydrated Na-borate hydroxide with perfect cleavage and a brittle fracture. There are some small amount of white surface alteration (via dehydration) to Tincalconite, but limited by a coating of plastic spray. The crystal ends are matrix influenced, as typical. This is the only twinned crystal I have seen from this locality, which is all but closed to collecting.

SIZE: 92 x 91 x 45 mm overall (Large Cabinet)