Chalcopyrite with Quartz

$950.00

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The ArkenstoneFeatured

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A classic from the old ways of early mineralogy in France, this is the rare chalcopyrite style found at the famous quartz mines in La Gardette, sometimes along with siderite as well. This miniature hosts a 3 cm chalcopyrite crystal perched on quartz - you could not ask for better contrast. It is admittedly dark - but also that is the natural patina acquired after perhaps a century or more of oxidation after coming out. It could easily be cleaned and brightened but we do not clean antique sulfides, to make them too bright and shiny. This has an old look, an old patina, that in person is subtle, real, and quite beautiful. Few of these turn up to market. Dr. Erika Pohl-Ströher - 51200