Skutterudite with Calcite

$1,200.00

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T

The ArkenstoneFeatured

3,403 for sale·Member since 2026

This is a truly bright and metallic excellent skutterudite miniature of the highest quality for both luster and sharpness, consisting of several, well-formed, metallic-gray, dodecahedral crystals in a very attractive association. They are nicely emplaced in a mass of contrasting white, rhombohedral calcite. Skutterudite is a rare cobalt arsenide usually containing a little iron and nickel and the Bou Azzer Mine is arguably the best locality for the species. However, most finds, and there are admittedly many, simply lack either the precise structural perfection we see here, or the shocking foil-bright luster (or both). The mirror-like crystals are from 0.5 to 2.7 cm in size and contrast well with the white calcite. This attractive piece is well-composed to show off the bright, somewhat complex skutterudite crystals and the piece sits well naturally. The crystals are in pristine condition. Rarely do we see good skutterudite pieces for sale anymore from this classic locale, beyond miniatures with damage. Ex. Paul Stahl collection - and he was known for his exceptional taste in such examples of rarities, picking the one that stands out in this size range from the rest. Acquired in 2005 from Jordi Fabre.