NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 , January - February 2008

23 ,
133 ,
2008
15 - Price of each issue 15

, Be3Al2(SiO3)6 , (

) +
)
Gilgit ,
Beryl , Be3Al2(SiO3)6, (variety Aquamarine) + Mica (variety Muscovite)
from Gilgit area of Pakistan

- HELLAS - PIRAEUS
ISSN 1011-5870

NEWS ON MINERALS

Apatite [Ca5(PO4)3(OH,F,Cl), Calcium (Fluoro, Chloro,

Hydroxyl) Phosphate] on orange calcite,
Yater property, Otter Lake , Quebec , Canada

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

Thenardite (white mineral on some

Crystals is mirabilite) ,Soda Lake , San
Luis , Obisbo Co. ,California , USA
[ Na2SO4 ]
[ Na2SO410H2O ]

) [BaSO4 ] +
[PbCO3 ] ,
Baryte (cockscomb type) [BaSO4 ] + Cerussite [PbCO3 ] , Morocco.
(

From the Collection of Alexandra G. Minatidou)

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA
NEWS ON MINERALS
ISSN 1011-5870
1986
Established in January 1986)

2008
,

Editor and Owner:

Dimitris G. Minatidis , M. Sc.
Geologist-Geochemist
70 Queen Sofia Avenue ,
Piraeus EL-185 32 , HELLAS
Tel : +30- 6979771898
Tel . : +30-210-4171-680
FAX :+ 30-210-4132-570
e-mail : minat@gemin.eu ,
info@gemin.eu
Web : www.gemin.eu
Subscription
:
1 year 90 EURO Air Mail Post Paid
2 years 180 EURO
(ONLY Air Mail Subscriptions)
Previous volumes :
1-14 (years 1986 1999)
in paper form , 80 EURO/volume
Vol. 15-21 (Years 2000-2007) ,
available in CD at 400 Euro/CD
Air Mail Post Paid
Payment by Wire transfer to :
D. Minatidis Account number :
IBAN GR840 840 1050 0000
05505505486 CITI BANK ,
Swift Code: CITIGRAA
Piraeus Branch , Dimotiko Theatro ,
Korai Square , Piraeus , Hellas
Circulation in 25 Countries
around the World.
Advertisement*
(Prices per Insertion per issue)
COLOR BLACK & WHITE
Size
Prices in EURO
A4
300
150
A4/2
180
100
A4/4
100
75
Front Cover : 500 Euro
Back Cover: 400 Euro
All advertisements are prepaid.
*European Union residents add 19 %
V. A .T . on total value.
ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA
NEWS ON MINERALS
sponsor the GeMin International
Mineral , Gemstone , Jewellery and
Fossil Exhibition held every year
in Hellas since 1987.
NEWS ON MINERALS
- Opinions expressed by the authors
do not represent opinion of
ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA
NEWS ON MINERALS
Specimen on the cover
O
, Gilgit ,
*Aquamarine and Muscovite
Crystals from Gilgit area of
Northern Pakistan

,
,
.
,

Google , Yahoo

,
,

.
,
,

.
.
.

2007
!

---We are in the beginning of a(nother) New Year and despite all kind of
problems the humanity faces , we must be optimistic , retain our selfconfidence and hope that the year 2008 will bring Deposits of Happiness
and Veins of Joy to each one of us to wish you using Geological
Phraseology. We live in a World which is characterized by instability ,
disequilibrium and high speeds .T he collection of minerals , fossils and
gemstones has followed the heady rhythms of our times. The collectors
today can find hundreds if not thousands - sites in the Web , where they can
easily locate a mineral and/or fossil they are interested for. The search has
been facilitated and accelerated via the search engines such as Google , Yahoo
and others. Apart from

cyber market , various periodicals , books ,

educational kits have reinforced the
paper marketto learn and locate
minerals. Another pleasant feature is the increase of Collectors on Minerals
Postage stamps and Collectors on Geophilotelism. The one supports the other
and altogether enhance the Hobby. We had emphasized in the prologue of the
former issue that it is very important to spread the knowledge on minerals ,
gemstones and fossils to junior people in Hellas in a more systematic and
consistent way .In this context we have the opinion that the Hellenic Ministry
of National Education and Religious Affairs could undertake the task to print
and distribute extra copies of ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA to elementary schools
and colleges of Hellas as a gift for the New Year. This action would act as
a spark to switch the interest of young people to Minerals ,Gemstone and
Fossils. A hobby with scientific , educational and professional extensions will
move the interest of students to a productive activity and make them able
to discover earth treasures in their native land. We are for the spread of the
hobby in schools in a systematic way and consistent way , taking into
consideration the damages done in schools after the capture of schools by
pupils in November 2007.
In any case Happy New Year to All !

Dimitris G. Minatidis

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

21rst GeMin 2007 , Athens , Hellas Some Highlights

The 21rst GeMin 2007 International Mineral ,Gemstone ,Jewellery and Fossil Exhibition , the
Unique Show of its kind held annually in the Heart of Southeastern Europe , Athens , took place at
the ROYAL OLYMPIC Hotel from 23 to 25 November 2007. GeMin Show is trying to keep every
year an inflow of new mineral specimens , gemstones and fossils by attracting various Companies
from various parts of the World. Some of the main attractions in 21rst GeMin 2007 were : Superb
Aquamarine Gem Crystal specimens from Pakistan and China , old classic specimens from Lavrion ,
Hellas , Gold and Silver Jewellery from India , Pink rubellites from Nigeria , Red Spinels on white
marbles and fine pyromorphites from China , Perfect pyrite cube crystals on rock matrix from
Navajun , Spain , Lazurite crystals on marble from Afghanistan and pink Topaz crystals on rock
matrix from Pakistan. For first time we had participants from P.R. China who brought sizeable ,
colorful and well crystallized mineral specimens in any size. New Companies from India and China
had on display superb mineral specimens and Gold and Silver Gemstone Jewellery in affordable
prices. A noted participation was that of Municipality of Serifos Island , this famous Island is
located in the Aegean Sea in Hellas . Serifos has yielded and still yields fine mineral specimens
and along with Elba Island in Italy , Kriti Island , Milos and Cyprus are the main Island
mineralogical destinations for Collectors in Southeastern Mediterranean. Hellenic Companies
such as Kavallaris Theodoros , Tsinidis Anastassios (Tsinidis Minerals located in Northern Hellas)
and Evanghelia G. Minatidou had on display fine gem rough rubellites from Nigeria , Smoky
Quartz crystals from Northern Hellas and fine pyrite cubic crystals from Navajun in Spain. K.
Economopoulos Museum based in Kalyvia Thorikou Attikis had on display old Lavrion specimens
and rare crystals ,while Maria Michailidou had on display fantastic gem tourmalines from Brazil
and gemstone jewellery. ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA presented an integrated stand with top quality
aquamarine specimens from Gilgit area of Northern Pakistan , zeolites from India , fine specimens
from Lavrion , educational products on Earth Sciences , while there was a display of systematic
mineralogy specimens which attracted students of Geological Science. Collector Pavlos Kyraghelos
had on display exclusively specimens from Hellas and especially from the area centered on
Piraeus. All the Hellenic Participations along with their colleagues Wulin Zhang (
) , Anil
Aggarwal (
) ,Khan International Gems (
) ,Artigianato Indiano (
) and Rabiya
Gems (
) covered all spectrum of topics that GeMin covers.But REMEMBER our next Mineral,
Gemstone and Fossil Festival :

22nd GeMin 2008 , 28-29-30 November 2008 , Athens , Greece ! Be there !

21 GeMin 2007

21 GeMin 2007

23-24-25

,
.

,
,

,
,

,
,

21 GeMin 2007
Navajun

,
.

GeMin

22 GeMin 2008 ,

.
,

2007

,
.

Wulin Zhang (
) , Anil Aggarwal (
) ,Khan International Gems (
Indiano (
) and Rabiya Gems (
)
,
,
,

) ,Artigianato
,
,
GeMin 2007.

22 GeMin 2008 , 28-29-30

!

2008 www.gemin.eu
!

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

[Be3Al2(SiO3)6 ]
.
-Museum aquamarine crystals + muscovite specimen from China (Courtesy : Mr. Wulin Zhang)

-Beryl , variety , Ghosenite + mica ,var. Muscovite

on rock matrix , China
,
.
+

,
,

Aquamarine on
Postage Stamps
Smoky Quartz on
Postage Stamps

,
,
-Museum size Smoky Quartz crystal
from Macedonia,Northern Greece.
Sample : Courtesy : Tsinidis Minerals,
Thessaloniki ,Greece

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

A: Beryl , var . Ghosenite (Be3Al2(SiO3)6) , - .

,
B: Hemimorphite (Zn4Si2O7(OH)2H2O ) blue mineral on rock matrix .
C: Pyromorphite (Pb5(PO4)3Cl) - C.
D: Wulfenite (PbMoO4 ) D.
E: Rhodochrosite (MnCO3 ) - E.
F : malachite (Cu2CO3(OH)2 ) -F.
G, H: Red Spinel (MgAl2O4 ) on white marble - G, H.
.
All specimens are from China .Specimens : A, C, D, E, F, G, H : Courtesy : Mr. Wulin Zhang ,while specimen B is
Courtesy : K. Economopoulos

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

GeMin 2007 ,
-Panoramic view of part of GeMin 2007 Exhibition Hall . In the front is the Stand of Serifos Municipality

, Be3Al2(SiO3)6 , (

) +
(
)
Gilgit ,
Beryl , Be3Al2(SiO3)6, (variety Aquamarine) + Mica (variety Muscovite) from Gilgit area of
Pakistan

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

GeMin 2007
-Panoramic view of part of GeMin 2007 Exhibition Hall with displays of fine Gemstones and Gemstone
Jewellery

The stand of Mr. Wulin Zhang with fine mineral specimens from China including red spinels on white marble.

-Blue cavansite crystals on stilbite from India

,
-Emerald crystals on rock matrix , Pakistan
,
-Down right ,a perfectly crystallized aquamarine crystal cluster from Gilgit , Pakistan
,
Gilgit

NEWS ON MINERALS

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

1
Aquamarine specimens from Gilgit , Pakistan -

3
4
Indigolite tourmaline on quartz Brazil
Water melon tourmaline on quartz , Brazil

( Samples Courtesy : Maria Michailidou )

Charoite

(K(Ca,Na)2Si4O10(OH,F)H2O)

is a rare mineral, named for the

Chara River or Charo River and is found
in the Sakha Republic, Siberia, Russia ,
where a syenite massif has intruded
into altered limestone deposits.

(Charoite : Courtesy , Artigianato Indiano)

6
Ametrine

: It is a mixture of amethyst and citrine

with zones of purple and yellow or orange

(

(Samples of ametrine courtesy : Khan International Gems)

NEWS ON MINERALS

10

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

11

10

12

7 . Facetted emeralds
8. Facetted rubies from Madagascar
9. Lemon quartz from Brazil
10 . Tourmalinated quartz cabochons from Brazil
.
11.
,
,
Quartz , var. Citrin , Brazil
12.
- Labradorite from Madagascar
[ Samples 7 and 8 , Courtesy : Rabiya Gems while Samples 9,10,11 and 12 Courtesy : Khan International
Gems ].

RUBIES IN POSTAGE STAMPS

NEWS ON MINERALS

11

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

21rst GeMin 2007 (23-25/11/2007) ,

-Some Commemorative Geophilotelic Covers ,Mineral Postage Stamps and Maxima Cards on
display during 21rst GeMin 2007 which was held in Athens ,Greece on 23-24-25 November 2007

- Amethyst on Postage Stamps

Emeralds on Postage

Stamps

NEWS ON MINERALS

12

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

- From Australia :
Opal Book
A lovely book on Opal, South Australia s Gemstone is available for 22 Australian dollars ,plus
postage and handling costs (around 10 AUS $ per book for Sea Mail or AUS $ 16 per book for
Economy Air Mail). This is a publication of the South Australian Department of Mines and Energy.
Size of the book 15 cms X 21 cms , 177 pages full of color photos and maps. (Edition 1992)
This is a book written by people who live and work in the heart of the largest Opal Fields in the
world ,
speaksto you and tells you all about Opal : What is Opal ? Geology of Opal ,mining
methods in the Opal Fields of Andamooka , Coober Pedy Mintabie ,The Opal Industry , Opal
mining and the Law, Glossary of Opal , mining terms , selected bibliography and much more. This
is some of the information inside this book on one of the most beautiful gemstones : O p a l
How to order in Europe: ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS have been assigned as Official
Distributor in Europe for the book: Opal, South Australia s Gemstone. European orders will be
forwarded to : Dimitris G. Minatidis , c/o ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS ,
70 Queen Sofia Avenue , Piraeus EL-185 32 , Hellas. Tel. Intern. : +30-210-4171-680 FAX : +30210-4132-570 , E-mail: minat@hol.gr
. Payment will be sent-on receipt of Pro-Forma Invoice
directly to : Department of Mines and Energy ( Attention : The Editor , P. O. Box 151 , Eastwood ,
South Australia 5063 , Australia . Tel (08)-274-7500 , FAX : (08)-2727-597.
thomas.colin@saugov.sa.gov.au
-NEWS ON MINERALS
,

+ 10

22
16

.
:
- NEWS ON
MINERALS ,
.
70 ,
185 32 ,
(210)-4171-680 , FAX: (210)-4132-570
e-mail : minat@hol.gr
.

:
Department of Mines and Energy , P. O. Box 151 , Eastwood , South Australia 5063 , Australia
(Attention: The Editor) .Tel.(08)-274-7500 , FAX: (08)-2727-597 . thomas.colin@saugov.sa.gov.au
International Mineral Club I .T. N. M .C
The International Thumbnail Mineral Club is an International Mineral Club whose members trade
minerals and fossils by mail. Members in 16 Countries around the World. Thumbnail News is the
bi-monthly Newsletter full of News , articles , letters from members. A members updated list and
much more. There is a membership directory with member names , addresses , trading stock and
want list. Membership is US $ 16 in North America and US $ 20 overseas air mail. This will cover:
The Newsletter Directory and access to the yearly mail auction.
For more information please write to: D. Jorgensen ,6853 W. Abrahamson Rd., Ludington , MI
49431-9402 , USA and do not forget to mention that you read about I.T.N.M.C. in
-NEWS ON MINERALS.
,
International Thumbnail Mineral Club (I. T. N. M. C.)
,
,
.
: D. Jorgensen , 6853 W. Abrahamson Rd. Ludington ,
MI 49431-9402 , USA
.C.
-NEWS ON MINERALS.
-GEOMARKET-GEOMARKET- MINERAL SPECIMENS
- Calcite, Lavrion ,Hellas. Very nice coralloid calcite , various sizes. From 30 EURO.
- Smoky quartz , Macedonia , Hellas .
,very nice smoky quartz xls 20 EURO each.
- Annabergite (Mg-variety Cabrerite) , Lavrion , Hellas. Unique emerald-green silky xls on
matrix. 12-15 cms across. Very rare specimen .
- Slag specimens , Lavrion , Hellas. Slag specimens 3000-5000 years old with vugs filled with
minerals in small perfect crystals. 15 EURO each. Minimum 10 slags.
* Also nice mineral specimens from Lavrion for collectors from 15 (T/N size) each (azurite ,
baryte ,fluorite , smithsonite , malachite. dog-teeth ankerite and other species).
** Please add for postage and handling , depending on the weight of the specimens and the way
of shipment (Air or Surface Mail) . --- European Union ( ) Residents add 19% V.A.T. on total
cost.

NEWS ON MINERALS

13

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

(
) -MINERAL POSTCARDS (LAMINATED)
set of 12 color high quality mineral postcards depicting the following mineral specimens from
various localities around the world : 1. Sapphire 2. Ruby 3. Emerald (Facetted) 4 . Pyromorphite
5. Pyrrhotite on Calcite 6. Rhodochrosite + aegirine + genthelvite 7. Cubanite xls 8. Pyrite
crystals 9. Quartz , variety , amethyst- sceptre habit 10. Serandite 11. Diopside on grossular 12.
Amethyst 13. Gypse
Price 40 EURO Air Mail post paid.
CD-ROMs on Earth Science- CD-ROMs
* The Theory of Plate Tectonics
75
* Illustrated Dictionary of Earth Sciences
50
* The Wonders of Rocks and Minerals
75
* The study of minerals
90
* Plate Tectonics and how the Earth works
75
* Environmental management of Mineral
Exploration Activities for Field Personnel
95
* Life in Amber
85
* Explore the World of Modern UV-visible Spectroscopy
60
* The Photo-Atlas of minerals
95
* Hands-On Mineral Identification
40
European Union Residents add 19 % V.A.T.
GEMSTONES Peridot (Gem Olivine) : Gem rough facetting material transparent , excellent quality from
Pakistan.
Rose Quartz cabochons , 30 X 40 mm (Grade AAA , South African material ) : 5 EURO per piece.
Excellent brown-red ZIRCON crystals on Rock matrix from Pakistan; The specimens are from
remote areas of this Country and range in sizes from T/N to Cabinet . Please enquire.

SHOWS - NEWS -

Tucson USA : 2-17 February 2008 , Tucson , Arizona . Info : http://www.eimfs.com/

Bologna-Italy : 14-16 March 2008 , 39th Mineral ,Gem and fossil Show . Info : Maurizio Varoli ,Via D.
Galimberti , 640 134 Bologna , Italy .Tel/Fax : +39 051 6148006 . www.bolognamineralshow.com ,
info@bolognamineralshow.com

Lausanne Helvetia :

29-30 March 2008 , 40th International Mineral and Fossil show, Info : Mrs
Encarnita Graf , LA SOCIETE VAUDOISE DE MINERALOGIE , Tel/Fax : +41 213 411563 , www.svm.ch

Oslo Norway : The 33rd International Geological Congress , 6-14 August 2008 . Information :

www.33igc.org . Congress-Conference AS , P.O.Box 2694 Solli , NO-0204 Oslo , Norway . Tel. +47-22561930FAX: +47-22560541 , E-mail: secretariat@33igc.org

Germany , Munich

: 31 October 2 November 2008 , 45th International Mineral ,Gem and

Fossil Show . Information : MMFG Postfach 1361 , D-82034 Oberhaching , Mr. Joh. Keilmann ,
Tel:
+49-896134711
,
FAX:
+49-89.6135400
,
info@mineralientage.de
,
www.mineralientage.com

Greece , Athens :

22nd GeMin 2008 , 28-29-30 November 2008 . Information : GeMin, c/o

ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA - NEWS ON MINERALS , 70 Queen Sofia Avenue, Piraeus, EL-18532, Hellas.
Tel+30-210-4171-680, FAX:+30-210-4132-570 , e-mail : info@gemin.eu
minat@hol.gr ,
minat@gemin.eu , http://www.gemin.eu
PALEONTOLOGY , MINERALOGY : Some of your best contacts :
USA : Fossil News, Journal of Avocational Paleontology , Lynne M. Clos, Editor, 1185 Claremont
Dr., Boulder, Colorado USA 80303-6601 - http://www.fossilnews.com
Paleontologia
em Destaque , Editor: Marco Aurelio Vicalvi , Depto. De Geologia/ IGEO/
CCMN/ UFRJ , Av. Brigadeiro Trompowsky , s/n , Cidade Universitri , Iiha do Fundo , CEP
21.949.900 , Rio de Janeiro , RJ , Brazil . E-mail: sbp@igeo.ufrj.br ,
Site : http://www.acd.ufrj.br/geologia/sbp/sbp.htm
USA: Fossil Sites : http://home.att.net/~e.j.swearengin/fossils.htm
- NEW PERIODICAL

.
ORGANIC GEMS .
www.maggiecp.com ,
.
ORGANIC GEMS is a new online periodical publication devoted entirely to gem materials of plant
and animal origin. For details log on to web site www.maggiecp.com .

NEWS ON MINERALS

14

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

atural mineral Zircon ZrSiO4 versus the chemically different synthetic

diamond substitute, Cubic zirconia ZrO2
Zircon is a mineral with chemical formula ZrSiO4 , while Cubic zirconia (or CZ) with chemical formula (ZrO2) is
widely synthesized for use as a diamond simulant. Cubic zirconia is very rare in Nature. The color of Natural
mineral zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown and green. Colorless specimens that show gem
quality are a popular substitute for diamond .
Natural mineral zircon crystals , of various colors , if heated to temperatures greater than 900-1000 C may
become colorless. These colorless stones of heated Natural zircon crystals have been used as diamonds
substitutes and that way have resulted in identifying the name zircon with synthetic or imitation , while zircon
(ZrSiO4) is a Natural occurring mineral and should not be confused with synthetic cubic zirconium (ZrO2) .

ZrSiO4
(zircon)

ZrO2

ZrSiO4 ,

CZ)

(ZrO2) ,
.
.

.
.

1000 C

900.
,

(ZrSiO4)
(ZrO2) .

From the Gallery of ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS

Natural Brown Zircon Crystals from Pakistan

Specimen : 6X4X3 cms - Crystal: 2x2x2.5 cms

Specimen : 5X4.5X5 cms- Crystal: 1.5 X 1.2 X 1 cms

From the Internet

Cubic Zirconia -

NEWS ON MINERALS

15

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

SLAG MINERALS
*
Hellas + South Africa + Germany :
(International Association of Collectors of Slag Minerals - IACSM - Founded in 1986 by
NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS).
+
+
: Join the International Association of
Collectors of Slag Minerals and keep informed with Slag Mineralogy , Slag Minerals and Collectors
of Slag minerals from around the World. You can write either:
- NEWS ON MINERALS , 70 Queen Sofia Avenue , Piraeus EL -185 32 ,
Hellas. Tel. International : +30-210-4171-680 , FAX:+30-210-4132-570 e-mail : minat@hol.gr ,
http://users.hol.gr/~minat
S. AFRICAN MICROMOUNT SOCIETY, P.O. Box 17273 , Groenkloof, Republic of South Africa
ARGE Schlackenneubildung , c/o Mr. Elmar Nieding , Konstantine - Noppel Strasse 25 , D -7760,
Radolfzell Germany
*We had received a letter from the Editor of IACSM , Mr. Horst Windisch saying that the edition of the the
IACSM Newsletter will be delayed ,we hope temporarily. Already due to the efforts of the last 15 years
quite a few Slag Mineral Collectors constitute a dynamic potential which will take over the continuation
and coordination of this effort started back in 1986 by ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS .
Until a new editor will take over the continuation of the IACSM Newsletter , all Slag Mineral collectors can
send news ,articles ,exchange lists etc to ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS for publication.

Exchange of MineralsFrom Holland : Mr. Andr M. Robbemond , Esmoreitschouw 7 , 2726 KH Zoetermeer , The
Netherlands wishes to exchange mineral specimens with other collectors.
- From UK: Mr. Steve Bown , 26 Mendip Heights , Didcot, Oxfordshire OX11 7TBUK , is a newcomer in the Collection of Micromounts and wants to contact other Micromounters in Hellas and
other Countries. A warm welcome to Steve , who deserves a welcome accompanied by some micros donated
to him to help him move forward.
- From Hellas : O .
,
23
EL-17673
.Mr. Michalis Samouhos , Meghistis 23 , Kallithea , EL-17673, HELLAS, wishes to exchange minerals with
collectors from all over the World.
-From Italy : Mr. Fabio Bigazzi ,Via dell'Acqua Ghiaccia, 4 - Fontana - 53038 Staggia Senese
- Si - Italy - fontana99@valdelsa.net , exchanges minerals with collectors around the World.
.

Lazurite [

(Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(SO4,S,Cl)2 ] crystals on rock matrix , Afghanistan

[ (Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(SO4,S,Cl)2 ]
,

NEWS ON MINERALS

16

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

LEARN ON THE MINERAL WEALTH OF THE COUNTRIES VIA MINERAL POSTAGE STAMPS
,
,
.
The best gift for the students and the newcomer in the collection of mineral,
gemstone and fossil postage stamps
50
.
The packet contains 50 sealed (used) mineral ,gemstone postage stamps.
,
.
-Another way to attract the interest of junior and senior Mineral,Gem and Fossil
Collectors is the collection of postage stamps depicting Minerals, Gems and
Fossils.

25

Price 25 ppd

- MINERAL POSTAGE STAMPS :

** Mineral Wealth of Hellas , Mint Set , 7 stamps (1980) 10 EURO ppd
** First Day Cover (F D C) 12 EURO ppd.
** Maximum Cards on the same topic 75 EURO ppd (Total number of sets in circulation 500Limited offer).

20
GeMin
COMMEMORATIVE COVER ON THE 20 YEARS JUBILEE OF GeMin EXHIBITION

20

-NEWS ON MINERALS

GeMin.
-NEWS ON MINERALS
.
5.
- On the occasion of 20 years of GeMin Exhibition in Athens , Hellas , ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON
MINERALS have released a Geophilotelic Document cancelled at the National Philotelic Museum. The
commemorative cover will be available by this publication until end of stock. Price 5 .

ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS :

Your best source on Geophilotelism in Hellas

NEWS ON MINERALS

17

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

Some Geophilotelic FDCs and Commemorative Covers

Mineral and Fossil Collecting Geotour-packet information

for Greece
***Do you plan to spend your holidays in Greece next Summer ? If yes , there is no doubt that you can
combine your holidays with a tour in some fascinating areas in the Greek Mainland or the Greek Islands and
look for minerals , fantastic volcanic terrains , fossils , The Petrified forest of Lesvos , the Santorini and
Nisyros Volcanoes , ***Come and see the famous Milos Island , Visit the Septaria Terrain in Central
Macedonia and collect Septaria for your collection, See the Meteora Geomorphological Landscape which
surely could be one of the Seven Nature s Wonders of the World and much more .
***Plan your tour timely . Finalize your plans . We can provide you with packet information with maps
and other information at a minimal cost . Be self-sufficient in Greece with our information packet and let
yourself and your family to discover GeoGreece !
Our packet will include :
1. Excellent Road Editions Map either for the Greek Islands or the Mainland
2. Geology map of the area (wherever is available ) and
3. Any available information on Mineral AND Fossil localities or other Magnificent Landscape information
available for the area of your interest.

WELCOME IN GREECE ! FROM ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS

NEWS ON MINERALS

18

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

Geological and Paleontological Safari in Kriti Island , Aegean Archipelago , Hellas

(
1.

)
(Nopigia) , 2.

.
(Platanos) , 3.

:
(Prases)

(Sfinari) , 4.

4
A
[ 5.
6.

(Aghia Pelaghia) ,
(Psyhro)
7.
(Tsoutsouros) ,
(Moni Arvis)

8.

10

.],

Mene (Mene Psarianosi Symeonidis)

,

.
.

NEWS ON MINERALS

19

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

5
6

8
B

1. The Geology of Crete Island , by Fytrolakis, N., 1980 ,NTU of Athens, Greece, p. 80.
2. General Geological Map of Greece , Crete Island by Creutzburg, N., Drooger, C.W., Meulenkamp, J.E., 1977.
Scale : 1:200.000 . Geological Mapping Section, Institute of Geological and Mineral Exploration (I.G.M.E),
Athens, Greece.
3.
,2000 ,
.
.
4. The age of ophiolitic rocks of the Hellenides (Vourinos, Pindos, Crete): first UPb ion microprobe
(SHRIMP) zircon ages , 2004 , by Anthi Liati 1 , Dieter Gebauera1 and C. Mark Fanningb 2
Chemical Geology Volume 207, Issues 3-4, 16 July 2004, Pages 171-188 , ELSEVIER
1
Institute of Isotope Geology and Mineral Resources, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH),
Sonneggstrasse 5, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
2
Research School of Earth Sciences, The Australian National University, Mills Road,
Canberra ACT 0200, Australia .

Kriti Island is located in Southernmost point of Aegean Archipelago in Southeastern Mediterranean and is an
ideal destination for Summer Vacation. But also Kriti island is an ideal destination for Collectors of Minerals and
Fossils. This report provide location for some localities only, as the rest of the Island is waiting for Collectors to
discover Earth Treasures. Keep you eyes open while there and send news in brief to share with other
collectors and do not forget that you always win in life by sharing with others. Nopigia , Platanos , Sfinari and
Prases are 4 of the numerous localities to search for quartz crystals. It does not mean that these 4 localities see
above are the best. There are more and if you find them let us know !
Aghia Pelagia yields nice specimens of epidote with quartz crystals , in Psyhro you will fine Calcite crystals
while in Tsoutsouros is a location for fossils .But well preserved fossils can be also found in many localities in
Kriti Island. Perfect fossil fishes like Mene Psarianosi Symeonidis (see Fossil Postage Stamp , in page 17 of
this issue ) have been found and there are more as school of fishes were trapped there. In Moni Arvis you
will find beautiful gypsum crystals while in eastern Kriti you must visit the gypsum Hills.

NEWS ON MINERALS

),

20

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

For location of the areas in photographs 1 and 2 see red circle on the map

B of Kriti Island in page 19.

2
.

.
Milky quartz veins forming cross , while intruding limestones . Psiloritis Mt. (Idi Mt) ,Kriti Island , Hellas
Psiloritis Mt. in Kriti is a Geological terrain with numerous impressive structural geology phenomena.
:
- Photographs : By Petros Solomonidis

NEWS ON MINERALS

21

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

NEWS ON MINERALS

22

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

;
.

,
,

.
) ,

.
)

. 1

(
.
.

4 .
.2.
. 3.
.

1.

2.
3.
4.
1. Sterling silver obsidian pendant 2. Sterling silver green quartz pendant
3. Simulated sterling silver obsidian pendant 4. Sterling Silver obsidian pendant
. 1, 2, 3
:
,
.4,
Design
,
55-57 ,

,1
,

Photographs Photographs 1,2,3 Source : Internet , Photograph 4 , Courtesy Creations Design , Evanghelia
G. Minatidou , Commercial Center TERPSITHEA, 1rst Floor , Iroon Polytechneiou 55-57 , Piraeus , Hellas)
(
)
.
BOOM
(
.5,6)
. 6)

( . 7 -12).
BOOM

.
.
BOOM
,

,
3.

Sea green obsidian , obsidian Paraiba color or Neon blue Obsidian ,

Mythos or Reality ?

Plentity of blue and green obsidian silver jewellery exists in the Market. Most common colors of
obsidian , a Natural Glass of Volcanic origin , are black , rusty brown and gray. A
Paraiba color
or
neon blue obsidianor sea green obsidian has entered dynamically in the Gemstone Industry.
A possible source seems to be Indonesia.
In the phorographs above one can see 1. Sterling silver obsidian pendant 2. Sterling silver green quartz
pendant 3. Simulated sterling silver obsidian pendant and 4. Sterling Silver obsidian pendant .
Many people want to know : Is this a natural gem obsidian ? Quite a few argue that this Sea green obsidian is
a man-made color glass. The other day walking in the streets of my Native City , Piraeus , Hellas , I noticed
that the Vitrines of a known Fashion Shop named BOOM , located in the corner of King George and
Kountouriotou str. , were decorated with Museum size sea green transparent pieces of
Paraiba obsidian
[ See photographs 5 -12 in page 23 ]. I asked the people at BOOM and they told me that the material was
sand blasted colored man-made glass. The quality and the color were excellent .What we would call AAA
Quality Gem Rough. As attractive color , hardness and cleanness are some of the main characteristics of a
gemstone (the other is rarity) , it is more than sure that those pieces cut properly would give thousands of
carats of beautiful simulated blue and green obsidian suitable for making jewellery.
:
BOOM ( .

-NEWS ON MINERALS
.

Acknowledgments : ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS would like to thank people at Fashion Shop
BOOM (Mr. Voulgarakis) in Piraeus for their permission to get and publish the photographs on this
informative note on
Sea green obsidian.

NEWS ON MINERALS

23

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

.5

10

Simulated Neon Blue

Obsidian Rough
(Courtesy : BOOM Fashion
Gallery, Piraeus , Hellas)
11

12

NEWS ON MINERALS

24

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

CONSULTING SERVICES
Are you looking to buy Raw Mineral Resources , Ores for your Industry ?
We provide the most reliable Consulting.
We go through our data base and search for the best solution for you to fit best in
your needs.
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70 Queen Sofia Avenue , Piraeus , EL-185 32, HELLAS
Tel. +30-210-4171-680 , FAX:+30-210-4132-570 , e-mai : info@gemin.eu
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Just buy the Suitable Natural Product which will create a shield around you and protect
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Enquiries from other Countries are also welcome !
ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS
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Tel. : +30-210-4171-680 , FAX : +30-210-4132-570 , e-mail: info@gemin.eu
Mobile telephone number : 6979771898
***************
,
ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS
70 Queen Sofia Avenue , Piraeus , EL-185 32, HELLAS
Tel. : +30-210-4171-680 , FAX : +30-210-4132-570 , e-mai: minat@gemin.eu ,
info@gemin.eu
Mobile telephone number : 6979771898

NEWS ON MINERALS

25

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

GeMin , Your Mineral ,Gem , Jewellery and Fossil Exhibition in Southeastern

Europe.

www.gemin.eu

- Most of major European Mineral, Gem and Fossil shows take place in Western Europe . GeMin show in
Athens ,Hellas , is the unique event of its kind which covers the Mineral, Gem , Jewellery and Fossil activities ,
Industry and Earth Sciences and fills the gap in Southeastern Europe. ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON
MINERALS is widely known that sponsors the GeMin show since 1987 , but our publication has and will
continue to support within its possibilities any effort on Earth Sciences and especially on Minerals, Gems and
Fossils. We always believe that this is the only way to enhance the Sciences of Mineralogy , Paleontology in the
form of hobby as well as enhance the Gem Industry. It is the least acknowledgement to all those people who
look for minerals ,gems and fossils in the remote areas of the Earth and bring them in front of Collectors at
various Shows. It is the least acknowledgement to all those suppliers of Gem Rough and superb Mineral and
Fossil Specimens from around the World.
One of the most striking features of Athens GeMin show is its substantial sales potential as Hellas is one of
major tourist destinations in the World and apart from collectors in Hellas ,thousands of collectors come as
tourists and buy minerals, gems and fossils. Companies have realized this and so there is an inflow of material
every year in the Market here.
- GeMin show is the most comfortable show in Europe as the organizing Committee takes care for the
comfortness both the Exhibitors and the visitors. A great deal of superb specimens ,gems and fossils are
expected to be on display during 22nd GeMin 2008 to be held in Athens on 28-29-30 November 2008 and
we invite all to be present in this big event in Athens either as Exhibitors or as Visitors.
-Another parameter which is seriously taken into consideration by the Organizing Committee of GeMin is the
junior section : The future are the pupils ,the students and in general the younger generation of collectors ,so
schools are urged and invited to visit GeMin ,so young people have the chance to come across with mineral
specimens, gems and fossils but also with educational products on Earth Sciences.
: 28-29- 30
2008
22nd GeMin 2008 ,
,
.
Do not forget : 28-29-30 November 2008 is the 22nd GeMin 2008 International Mineral,
Gemstone ,Jewellery and Fossil Exhibition in Athens.

Probertite (NaCaB5O95H2O) , California , USA

,

Fluorite , CaF2 , (gem quality ) , India .

Fluorite Sample Courtesy : Maria Michailidou

(MAXIMA Cards on the Minerals Wealth of Hellas)

,
,
Chromite , Vourinos , Kozani , Hellas
Baryte from Milos Island and Lavrion

One of the best Mineral , Gemstone , Jewellery and Fossil Exhibitions in

Southeastern Europe. Be there !

NEWS ON MINERALS

26

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

Are you interested in Gemstones and Gem Rough Mineral Specimens from Nigeria ?
:
- NEWS ON MINERALS.
Use the friendly phrase :
I found you in ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS

NEWS ON MINERALS

27

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

FROM THE GALLERY OF ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS

- Minerals of the World

-

70

200

130

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85
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- A laminated wall chart 70 X 130 cms with photographs of 200 minerals and plentity of data on crystal
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The wonders of Rocks and

Minerals

CD-ROMs

- NEWS
ON MINERALS.
1. The Wonders of Rocks and Minerals
2. The Study of Minerals
-Two of the best CD-ROMs on Mineralogy are
available by ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON
MINERALS . These wonderful and very
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10 EURO shipping and handling Write now to :
ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA-NEWS ON MINERALS ,
FAX : +30-210-4132-570 , minat@gemin.eu,
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-NEWS ON MINERALS
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GeMin

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feet. You deserve to revive with a gemstone construction your valuable Health.

NEWS ON MINERALS

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Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

GOLD

- GOLD

NEWS ON MINERALS ,

.
- A new educational and collector s item from ORYKTOLOGIKA NEA - NEWS ON
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with gold flakes with
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Tell us what minerals you want for

your collection and we will make
the best offer.

Mining Lamps for Collectors

,
,

,
.

- Collect a piece of History. Add in your Mineral and Gemstone

Collection a perfect copy of a mining lamp which used to be (and is)
the
right handof miners , that is , of all those people who work down
under the Earth in adits and mining galleries to mine and bring in the
surface the raw metalliferous and industrial minerals ,so necessary to
make our life more comfortable

NEWS ON MINERALS

29

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

THE HELLENIC FLAG
A REAL JEWEL
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(

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:

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FAX : 210- 4132- 570 , minat@gemin.eu ,

minat@hol.gr

Aquamarine specimens Be3Al2(SiO3)6 , a fine selection from Gilgit area of Northern Pakistan
One of the best reviews on Mineral Wealth of Nigeria :
Mining Journal Special Publication ,London , February
2006
If you want to invest on the Gemstone Deposits of
Nigeria be aware that the Company below is very much
interested to cooperate with you :
Mr. EDISON EYO EDEDET , (NAME OF COMPANY :
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TELEPHONE:+2347028052488 / EMAIL:
kingsminingproject@yahoo.co.uk
kingedisongems@katamail.com

NEWS ON MINERALS

30

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

,
!
-You can learn the main minerals by playing cards ! Need more ? Just order a set of these cards.

, CaCO3,
-Aragonite, CaCO3 Lavrion

(Na2,Ca,Mg)3.5[Al7Si17O48]32(H2O)
- Limburgite in Lava , Blankenhornsberg /7817 ,
Thringen am Kaiserstuhl , Germany
White mineral may be Na-Faujasite

(Na2,Ca,Mg)3.5[Al7Si17O48]32(H2O)

NEWS ON MINERALS

31

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

From Europe:

STA
NERALOG CA TAL
Are you interested on what is happening in Italy, in Europe n minerals , events, new finds,
exchange of mineral specimens ?
Subscribe now to : RIVISTA INERALOGICA ITALIANA , Museo Civico di Storia Naturale ,
Corso Venezia n. 55 , -20121 Milano , Italy.
Excellent color photos and for each article in Italian , there is an extensive abstract in English
and German. Four (4) issues per year.
nnual Fees : 35 EURO , Overseas: US $ 45 U.K. JOURNAL OF MINES AND MINERALS
Information-News and Reports on British and other European Localities. Published twice
yearly. Three issues 13.50 ( 16.50 Air Mail from U.K.) Remit to : Mrs J. C. Spence , 3 Oak
Tree Road , Bawtry , Doncaster , South Yorkshire , ENGLAND Tel: (0302)-710244
Mineraux & Fossiles LE GUIDE DU COLLECTIONNEUR
Subscribe now and keep in touch with French collectors and Geoscientists.
Mineraux & Fossiles, 10 rue de Marignan, F-75008 Paris , FRANCE.
Schweizer Strahler Le Cristallier Suisse l Chavacristallas Svizzer Il Cercatore Svizzero
di Minerali The Swiss Prospector of Minerals
Are you interested to keep informed on mineral localities in Alps and Central Europe ?
Subscribe to the Swiss rospector of Minerals. Write now to :
REDAKTION , SCHWEIZER STRAHLER , c/o Mr.Thilo Arlt , Im Brhl 8, 8112 Otelfingen
HELVETIA , e-mail: redaktion@svsmf.ch Tel . mobil: 079 7385429 . Tel/ Fax : 043 4118655
'
(
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LAPIS MINERALIEN WELT FOSSILIEN,
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,
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-NEWS
MINERALS ,
.
From Australia : The Amateur Microscopist , Mike Dingley , P. O. Box A1017 , Sydney South
P.O. , NSW 1235-Australia , e-mail : michaeld@austmus.gov.au or Glenn Matheson , 27 Petit
St. , Port Macquarie , N S W 2444 , Australia . Tel.65821262 , e-mail: gsbm@one.net.au .
From USA : The LAPIDARY JOURNAL : http://www.lapidaryjournal.com/
- The Mineralogical Record : http://www.minrec.org/
METEORITES! Visit a New Web Site for the Latest & Best Meteorite Deals in the Galaxy:
www.meteoriteman.com or write to : Robert A. Haag, P. O. Box 27527 , Tucson , AZ 85726 ,
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From South Africa - SOUTH AFRICAN LAPIDARY MAGAZINE. : All you need to know on
minerals of the Republic of South Africa
South Africa : R 42 postage paid
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Overseas : Surface Mail US $ 17 post paid
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Send your order to : SOUTH AFRICAN LAPIDARY MAGAZINE
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0121 SOUTH AFRICA
or

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P.O. Box 17273 Groenkloof
South Africa 0027

From India : Journal of Gem Industry. Your best contact with India Gem
Industry. "Journal House", A-95 Janta Colony, Jaipur 302 004 , India. Tel.91-141-614-398 ,
610906 , 618002, 602900 FAX : 91-141-602973 , 564260 , 568233, diaworld@sanchamet.in
website : http://www.diamondworld.net and http://www.gemjournal.com . Editor Mr. Alok
Kala

NEWS ON MINERALS

32

Vol. 23 , No 133 (2008)

, Mysore ,
Ruby crystals in gneiss rock matrix , Mysore , India

(
) +
(
.
),
Gilgit ,
Beryl (variety Aquamarine) + Mica (variety Muscovite) from Gilgit area of Pakistan