Hessite with Quartz, Sphalerite, and Gold - illustrated
Unknown Owner
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Hessite is a very rare silver telluride that occurs at its best from this old, historic locality. This rich ribbon of metallic, grey crystals follows a seam in the matrix that extends from end to end. These Hessites are well-formed, and the largest, at 1.2 cm, is elongated and skeletal with interesting crystallography The matrix is a mix of Quartz, Calcite, Sphalerite, and what appear to be flecks of Gold (Known from here; and also Pyrite is not listed for here, so I don't think I am being fooled). There are even two minerals fluorescing; one golden and one a blue-white. I assume one of these is Calcite. Undoubtedly from the 1800's collecting heyday here, specimens this good are extremely hard to come by today. When they do become available, it is only out of old collections. Excellent (large) miniature, display quality, and richly crystallized. This is prominently illustrated in the recent 64-page article on Kay in Mineralien Welt (6-2017). Full Page photo on page 72.
Product details
SpeciesGold, Sphalerite, Hessite, Quartz
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions5.6 x 3.4 x 2.6 cm
Added on10/23/2024
LocalityRomania, Alba County
Known provenance
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| 08/2024 | Unknown Owner | Not disclosed |
| — | The Arkenstone | Not disclosed |
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Mineral guide
Learn about Gold
iconic native metal with sculptural crystals, herringbone leaves, and rich yellow hues; prized by collectors for locality lore, rarity, and striking form.Regional guide
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