This is a rare and attractive combination piece from the old Sofyia Mine in Ukraine consisting of red Cinnabar crystals associated with white Quartz crystals. Crimson-red to red-gray Cinnabar crystals from 3 to 5 mm, almost all showing textbook penetration twinning, are clustered in groups and sitting on, and slightly intergrown with, clusters of sparkling, milky white Quartz crystals for great contrast. The Cinnabar crystals have good luster and are darkened, probably due to being exposed to light while on display at some point, and are in excellent condition with only minor bruising that reveals a brighter red color. Smaller crystals on the bottom of the piece show much higher luster and a brighter red color and the sides reveal how the Quartz crystals are "sandwiched" between the two layers of Cinnabar. A significant and very difficult to obtain small cabinet piece from this Ukrainian locality. Ex. William "Bill" Wallace Pinch (August 15, 1940 – April 1, 2017) collection (his last exchange deal to me, before he passed away, included this specimen which we have had since that time).
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