Chinese Scholar Rock Chrysanthemum Stone

An extraordinary specimen created by nature millions of years ago, this large and stunning Chinese black chrysanthemum stone features white crystalline mineral (calcite and chalcedony) formation. The black Andulusite body contrasts dramatically with the radiating white petals of rhombohedral crystal matrix forms, resembling a fully opened chrysanthemum flower. Highly collectible as gemstone, it was cherished as scholar stone in Chinese culture and graced the collector's study. The stones were mostly found and collected in Southern part of China, with the black type likely from Hubei Provence, Enshi County. This particular stone on offer is in the form of a vertical slab with the white crystalline formation going through to the opposite sides, forming a near mirrored image. This rare quality also makes the stone displayable from both sides. The carved wood stand has stylized leaf-shaped feet, a reference to the chrysanthemum image on the stone.
For two very similar stones, see reference book Spirit Stone by Kemin Hu and Thomas S. Elias, page 136-137.