Galena on Siderite

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A fine Neudorf galena specimen like this, with sharp form, isolation, and siderite association, would have been considered one of the top "holy grails" of sophisticated collectors of the previous generations. All major collections had "a Neudorf" or desired to have one. Pieces of size and quality were always uncommon and this pristine and aesthetic piece meets both ancient and modern criteria for a major specimen. These impeccable old German classics were mined in the 1800s to early 1900s, and today are only found in old collections as they recycle. I have seen few specimens with such balance as this one. It features a metallic galena of the classic style from the locale, measuring 3.5 x 3.2 cm in size and perched amidst 3-dimensional siderites - all on drusy, sparkling quartz. The siderites are not "just " an association. They are also of superb quality with intense surface luster and a rich golden-brown color. They are high quality on their own merits. As a bonus, small disc-shaped white crystals of calcite are also (unusually) present. Joe Budd photos. ex Lawrence Conklin private collection. I have seen MANY inferior specimens and they already sell for $2000-3000 (USD equivalent). What I seldom see are truly outstanding specimens, even at the Munich shows.