Calcite    Level 3,981, New Fold, Empire State Mine, Balmat, St. Lawrence County, New York.  Collected 2022.  This year marks the finest mineral discovery from this historic mine.  An approximately 6 foot long pocket of glassy calcite crystals produced specimens of lustrous, often transparent calcites that ranged in color from water clear to purple in color.  Only a handful of specimens of this quality are known from this mine and the finest from this new discovery will certainly rank among the best calcites from anywhere in the world.  These specimens share characteristics more common to fine quartz specimens than calcites.  Mixed surface textures exhibiting etching, stepped growth, surface healing, and amazingly smooth areas are seen in contrasting, attractive combinations.  
This example is a Rossie habit twin measuring 11.6 x 10 x 5.6 cm thick.  It is a very light pink color, transparent with moderate internal veils and distinct cleavage planes, and shows the twin habit clearly with a very large twin flange on one side.  This simple rhombohedral shape is the typical form for crystals from this find.  It has an attractive mix of textured and smooth surfaces, all of the highest luster.  The flange on the side has smooth surfaces that give a nice contrast against the textured surfaces of the primary rhomb.  One side, back and bottom are cleaved flat.  There is a tiny touch mark on the upper surface and an almost invisible edge rub but overall this piece is in outstanding condition for this find.  $3,200