Copper (Spinel-Twinned) - image 1
Copper (Spinel-Twinned) - image 2
Copper (Spinel-Twinned) - image 3
Copper (Spinel-Twinned) - image 4

Copper (Spinel-Twinned)

Unknown Owner
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A central spine comprising a single robust, elongated spinel twin copper crystal is host to parallel-growth spinel twins of copper, to 1.7 cm in length. The net effect is to give this lustrous, brownish-red specimen an intriguing, three dimensional appearance. Architecturally, this looks a lot like a fish skeleton and so you can see why the nickname "herringbone coppers" has been attached to these. Out of all the Michigan coppers, this is really one of the few styles totally unique and recognizable to one specific mine. The patina color is a rich brownish-red (untouched by acidizing); and this specimen can be viewed from more than one direction since it appears to be a floater. The back side is lightly covered in a crystal druse, probably calcite.

Product details

SpeciesCopper, Spinel
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions7.2 x 3.2 x 2.3 cm
Added on10/23/2024

Known provenance

DateCollectorAcquisition price
08/2024Unknown OwnerNot disclosed
The ArkenstoneNot disclosed

Learn more

Copper
Mineral guide
Learn about Copper
native copper with spinel-twinned crystals and arborescences; notable from Lake Superior, Itauz, Dongchuan, Corocoro, prized for color and localities.
Regional guide
Copper from Champion Mine
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