Samarskite-(Y), Columbite-(Fe)

Superb, very well-crystallized (the photos do not do it justice) specimen of well-crystallized Samarskite-(Y) and Columbite-(Fe) (growing epitaxially on the samarskite crystals) from the major circa 2008-2013 dig at the now reclaimed and closed Spinelli Prospect, Glastonbury, Hartford County, Connecticut, USA. This specimen was named ‘Pierce Arrow” by its discoverer (Tony Albini) and is considered one of the best known pieces from this important REE mineral locality. A truly impressive REE mineral specimen especially for this locality! Professional photo (main photo) by Jeff Scovil.

Postscript: a note from Tony Albini: “Phil, the Pierce Arrow specimen was collected and named by me in the previously unknown dump areas. It looks like an arrowhead plus the Pierce Arrow was a fancy car in the past!”