Rhodochrosite

Unknown Owner

Loose cluster of lustrous slightly translucent sharp pinkish red rhombohedral rhodochrosite crystals without matrix from the Sweet Home Mine, Park County, Colorado, in great condition. The crystals show excellent form, bright vitreous luster, and the classic saturated pink to red color that has made this locality world famous. Rhodochrosite is a manganese carbonate mineral prized for its rich color and well developed crystal habits, and the Sweet Home Mine is regarded as one of the finest sources in the world for high quality crystallized examples. Discovered in the late 19th century and later reopened for specimen recovery in the late 20th century, the mine produced extraordinary rhodochrosite specimens that set the standard for the species. Fine loose crystal clusters from this classic Colorado locality are highly sought after by collectors.