Crystals from Argentina

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Crystals from Argentina — Rhodochrosite, Pink Amethyst & Andean Minerals Argentina is home to two of the mineral world's most distinctive specimens. The Capillitas mine in Catamarca province produces the finest rhodochrosite on earth — deep raspberry-pink stalactites and banded specimens that are the country's national gemstone. And Patagonia's volcanic basalt flows are the world's primary source of pink amethyst, a relatively recent discovery that has become one of the most popular new minerals in the collecting world. Argentine rhodochrosite from Capillitas forms as stalactites in silver mines, creating concentric banding patterns in alternating light and dark pinks when cross-sectioned. The finest stalactite slices are among the most prized mineral specimens in existence. Pink amethyst from the Choique Mine in El Cholón, Río Negro, forms in volcanic geodes — similar to traditional purple amethyst but with a softer, rose-pink color caused by a different type of iron oxidation state. Argentina also produces fine agate from Patagonia and quality quartz from the Andes. Browse our rhodochrosite collection or pink crystals . Compare with Brazilian and Uruguayan specimens. View all on our Interactive World Map . Free US shipping on orders over $150. Frequently Asked Questions What crystals come from Argentina? Argentina's most notable minerals are rhodochrosite (national gemstone, from Capillitas mine), pink amethyst (from Patagonian volcanic geodes), Patagonian agate, and Andean quartz. The Capillitas rhodochrosite is considered the finest in the world, and Argentina is the primary global source of pink amethyst. What is pink amethyst? Pink amethyst is a variety of quartz that forms in volcanic geodes in Patagonia, Argentina. It has the same crystal structure as traditional purple amethyst but gets its pink color from a different oxidation state of iron inclusions combined with specific irradiation conditions during formation. It was only recently discovered and ha