Proustite

Unknown Owner

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This is a MINIATURE-SIZED, gemmy, CHERRY-RED crystal of proustite that is normally so far beyond my price range and those of most mere rock-collecting mortals that even I wouldnt normally consider buying one on the open market. This one, however, came directly from an old collection and thus can be offered reasonably. The crystal has METALLIC luster and a pristine red color, undiminished by oxidation over time and obviously kept in a box since it was collected in the late 1800's heyday of Chanarcillo (and it is Chanarcillo, there is no doubt of that despite the fact that it doesn't have a label). It is so thick and yet so gemmy and bright that it really needs very little backlighting to see the rich internal color to the piece. In strong lighting, though, its damn near transparent, not just translucent. The crystal is complete all around and basically a floater, though there are admittedly small spots of rubbing here and there. Given size and other qualities, as well as the non-lethal pricing, a few minor rubs don't bother me on a piece like this. BETTER In PERSON ...you just do NOT even see crystals of this size, unrepaired, for sale very often! 3.7 x 2.5 x 1.3 cm