Gwindel, Smoky Quartz – Col de Talefre, Mont Blanc, Chamonix, France
 An impressive, perfectly transparent, and impressively large Gwindel! This intensely curved display piece has no notable damage, which is extremely rare for Gwindels of this size. The base is also completely healed and recrystallized. The surface of the triangular faces is dusted with a light, glittering layer of chlorite, which enhances the sinuous shape.
 Small negative fluorite imprints are visible on the upper surface of this wonderfully crystallized, rare quartz variety. Interesting doubling (twinning) is evident on the sides.
 The elongated point at the base gives this piece a particularly beautiful aesthetic.
 As with all alpine finds, this magnificent specimen was discovered by experienced mountaineers in extremely difficult and dangerous terrain. The French "prospectors" are called "crystalliers." These crystallizers mostly work in the Mont Blanc massif, which is not only the highest but also one of the most technically demanding mountain ranges in the Alps. Therefore, the majority of mineral prospectors in this area are experienced mountain guides. Compounding the challenge of the terrain, altitude, and freezing temperatures is a general ban on heavy tools, tents, and the use of helicopters. All of these factors make the search in the mountains around Chamonix a unique adventure, and the recovered minerals truly exceptional treasures!
 An aesthetically pleasing, high-quality, and impressively large collector's item from the French Alps!