Phosphophyllite
Unknown Owner
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A true rarity! This miniature phosphophyllite reaches a size rarely seen today. The fishtail twin has great luster and transparency, along with the classic, seafoam color. The color is heightened by a thin vein of ore which traverses its way, obliquely, across the specimen. There is some edge wear, to be sure, but visually it doesn't detract much and this is a large and unrepaired crystal even for the old days. For today's standards, its top o' the market. And a few dings does not bother me, given the size and beauty. This is still among the most sought-after "Holy Grail" species in the mineral world, with demand far outstripping the supply, which comes totally from the dispersion of old collections, like that of Peter Bancroft's. This is a large single, for any mere mortal to own. It was found in the 1940's, assuredly, and nothing like it has been found since! To be really blunt, specimens such as this are literally as close as we have to "priceless" - they simply are priced at what one person wants from another. there is no basis or comparison costing for such things. Too rare, too desirable, and too beautiful! I personally feel my amortization is really reasonable for something like this prize, and I doubt Pete would have sold it for the price, individually.
Product details
SpeciesPhosphophyllite
SizeMiniature
Dimensions3.3 x 1.5 x 1.1 cm
Added on10/23/2024
LocalityBolivia, Potosí, Cerro de Potosí
Known provenance
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| 08/2024 | Unknown Owner | Not disclosed |
| — | The Arkenstone | Not disclosed |
Learn more
Mineral guide
Learn about Phosphophyllite
rare sea-green to mint-blue crystals with glassy luster; fragile (hardness 3.5, perfect cleavage), prized Bolivian specimens and micromounts.Regional guide
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