Fresnoite
Unknown Owner
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This is an extremely rare matrix specimen of Fresnoite, one of the very rare titanium-containing minerals found in San Benito County (the same source as for the Benitoite Mines). Relatively few specimens of quality have been recovered compared to the neptunite and benitoite nearby, and many (such as this one) were collected during an aggressive mining operation around 1999-2000 by dealer and miner Scott Kleine. The Junnila Mine, started as a benitoite recovery operation, actually turned out to have rather poor benitoite production, but in a few historic spurts yielded these superb fresnoite crystals instead as a consolation prize. This is a miniature from his personal collection, featuring a sharp, freestanding, 1 cm crystal on matrix. It is a piece with high quality and display aesthetics both. the crystal is translucent, and a pure honey-yellow color
Product details
SpeciesFresnoite
SizeMiniature
Dimensions4.4 x 3.7 x 3.4 cm
Added on10/23/2024
LocalityUSA, California, New Idria Mining District
Known provenance
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| 08/2024 | Unknown Owner | Not disclosed |
| — | The Arkenstone | Not disclosed |
Comments