Magnetite

Unknown Owner

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In the 1980s and early 90s, the mineral collectors who pay attention to Eastern US material were shocked at the sudden spurt of incredible, lustrous, jet-black, magnetite crystals popping up on the market out of this deep mine (it extended down to 2500 feet according to Mindat.org!). These are, I think, among the world's finest magnetites for their freaky metallic luster and unusually sharp cubic habits (most magnetite is octohedral). This specimen is a rare cabinet piece featuring sharp crystals to nearly 1.5 cm, although the best crystal is on the left hand portion, and is 1 cm across. Superb example, from a now closed and defunct locality which, for a brief time, really gave collectors something unprecedented.