Azurite

$12,500.00

$40.00 shipping
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Ships from USA

Bisbee is one of the most famous copper mining areas in America if not the whole world and you will no doubt have seen many brightly coloured copper-bearing specimens from there, but this one might change your perspective of how great they get. This magnificent showcase specimen is the extremely rare velvety variety of Azurite whose colour is a brighter blue than the darker, glossy, larger crystals more commonly seen. Coming from the Mueller Collection (which we believe to be Ralph Edward Mueller, 1898-1957, and his son James, born in 1926) this is undoubtedly a very old and historic piece which makes its preservation in such perfect condition staggering. It may even date to some of the earliest discoveries at this mining area. Copper mineralization was spotted in 1877 and mining commenced in earnest shortly afterwards. Its gorgeous, shimmering silky blue surfaces are pristine save for a couple of tiny rubs and its rippled and bladed sculptural form lends itself perfectly to a dramatic display. How this has remained dust-free and protected from abrasion is testament to its previous owners who must have treasured it dearly. A quite remarkable Arizonan Azurite.