large red Phantom - rock crystal cluster, Cathedral Quartz, Cathedral rock crystal from Brazil

A red phantom quartz cluster from Brazil, Minas Gerais, classified as cathedral quartz. Numerous micro-points cover the main crystal faces like cathedral towers.

The name refers to the Gothic architectural form with numerous vertical aspirations. Phantom crystals are formed by interrupted growth with mineral layer deposition between phases.

Red phantom layers document iron oxide traces during the growth interruption. Each layer corresponds to a geochemical episode in the deposit's history.

Brazilian deposits in Minas Gerais provide the world's best cathedral quartz material. The dual property of cathedral geometry plus phantom stratigraphy is a collector's premium classification.

A Brazilian collector's item with cathedral geometry and red phantom stratigraphy.