Phosgenite

Unknown Owner

Phosgenite from the Monteponi Mine near Iglesias in Sardinia, Italy occurs in the oxidized zones of a large lead zinc deposit that has been mined since ancient times. Monteponi became one of the most important mining centers in Italy during the 19th and 20th centuries, producing significant amounts of lead and zinc from carbonate hosted ore bodies. Phosgenite formed as a secondary mineral in cavities within altered limestone, often associated with cerussite, anglesite, and galena. Specimens from Monteponi are well regarded by collectors for their clear to pale yellow prismatic crystals and their origin in one of Sardinia's classic mining districts. This example is superb with a large lustrous translucent blocky crystal set on matrix. The crystal measures to 2.0 cm on edge. In really good condition. The specimen comes with an antique label as shown at the end of the video, this label would date the piece to the very early 20th century.