Mexican Banded Calcite 1
This is a pendant made from banded calcite measures about 2 3/8" x ~3/4" at its widest x 3/8" thick. This same material also goes by the names onyx marble, Mexican onyx, or Egyptian alabaster.
This material forms from spring water or groundwater that has an abundance of calcite dissolved in it. When this water emerges at the mouth of a spring, the minerals precipitate out and build a crust of calcite crystals. Over time, more water flows by and more minerals settle out. The variations between the layers are caused by differences in the water flow rate and small amounts of impurities. In its most pure state calcite is white or clear, but it’s easily tinted by minor amounts of other minerals.
This piece has a light sheen gloss fitted to a light brown leather cord with a high quality magnetic clasp.