{"product_id":"dvxydlakqu","title":"Absolute Stunner … Smoky Quartz Gwindel from Chamonix Mont Blanc, France","description":"\u003cp\u003eAbsolute Stunner … Smoky Quartz Gwindel from Chamonix Mont Blanc, France\u003cbr\u003eSmoky quartz gwindels from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France, are highly prized, rare, and distinctive twisted Alpine crystal specimens. They are characterized by parallel, side-by-side tabular smoky quartz crystals that exhibit a unique helical twist, often accompanied by chlorite inclusions, high luster, and exceptional clarity, frequently sourced from areas like Les Droites. \u003cbr\u003eKey Characteristics \u0026amp; Details:\u003cbr\u003eAppearance: These specimens feature a “twisted” or “swirled” growth habit (a “gwindel”) around the C-axis, which is a structural, not environmental, characteristic.\u003cbr\u003eColor \u0026amp; Luster: They range from light to rich chocolate smoky colors, often with brilliant, glassy luster.\u003cbr\u003eInclusions: Many, particularly those from the French side of the Mont Blanc massif, contain chlorite inclusions that provide a matte, frosted, or “twisted” texture on the prism faces, while the termination faces remain clear.\u003cbr\u003eLocation: While often associated with Switzerland, notable, rare specimens are found in the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc area, particularly at Les Droites.\u003cbr\u003eForm: Gwindels are classified as closed (tightly packed), open, or intermediate based on the tightness of their twist and separation.\u003cbr\u003eValue: Due to their rarity and specialized, manual harvesting, they are considered high-end, collectable specimens, with prices generally higher in Europe. \u003cbr\u003eThese raretwisted crystals from the French Alps are famous for their aesthetic”windowpane” transparency and unique habit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"22sGEMS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48997038391515,"sku":null,"price":1795.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0528\/3584\/4251\/files\/DVXYDlakQu.jpg?v=1784638315","url":"https:\/\/22sgems.com\/products\/dvxydlakqu","provider":"22sGEMS","version":"1.0","type":"link"}