Phosgenite

A superb example of this old classic, which many people consider the best of species. This particular crystal is stereotypic textbook in form, complete all around, and has a rich amber color that is seldom seen (often, they are colored in gray tones). This is a significant Italian specimen from the noted collection of Dr. Giancarlo Fioravanti, a specialist in the lead mineral deposits of Italy and in Italian minerals in general. It thus has the best provenance you can ask for on an Italian classic! It was a well known piece in his collection before he passed away around the late 1990s, and the collection went into storage for possible donation to the Museum of Milan. However, it was later sold, and some pieces, including many significant Italian specimens, came to us. The mass on these crystals is surprising - this is 325 grams! Joe Budd photos.