Rhodochrosite

$3,000.00

$40.00 shipping
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Super gemmy, this individual, off-matrix, strawberry-red, to orange-red, thumb-nail sized, composite 'dog-tooth' scalenohedral Rhodochrosite crystal is an exceptional classic from arguably the world's most important locality for gem Rhodochrosite. Never common, there was a time during the 1960s and 1970s, when this form of Rhodochrosite was discovered in the N'Chwaning manganese mines in the Kalahari Manganese Field in South Africa and stunned mineral collectors the world over with their unique quality. Although some of the mines are still operating, fine Rhodochrosite specimens have not been seen for over a generation. A few mines in Peru have produced paler, smaller crystals, but never in the same league as the South African greats. This 2 cm tall crystal, or more correctly group of parallel terminations, is beautifully shaped, with sharp, glassy sides, and with a light surface dusting of black Manganite seen on two or three sides adding to its character. When these were first discovered many were cut as gemstones, thus reducing the number of top quality crystals that were preserved. The base of this crystal shows where it was formerly attached to other similar crystals in a 'bed' lining a cavity, but its tapering scalenohedral shape is excellent. With directional lighting its fine translucency produces a superb internal 'fire'. Top quality gem Rhodochrosite crystals like this are now so rarely seen that they are amongst the most sought-after of individual crystals.