Vanadinite

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This is not your typical vanadinite cluster on matrix from Morocco but rather, this piece emphasizes a two-dimensional, flattened crystal aggregate that is subtly curved giving it a sublime three-dimensional aspect that displays well in a variety of orientations, and the front is as intriguing as the back. This two-sided piece consists of flattened, deep red, hexagonal plates from 1.0 to 2.0 cm across that, on one side, consist of a mix of crystals that display a blend of both hoppered and flat surfaces all with a perceptible satin to glassy sheen. The other side of the piece has a noticeably curved surface composed of flattened aggregates of platy vanadinite crystals that have distinct crystal boundaries around the edge that become less distinguishable toward the interior, to the point that they almost seem like they melt together. The hoppering is not what we would typically expect -- a series of fine striations radiate outward from one end and fan out across the piece internally, creating a shimmering play of light on the interior of the vanadinite plates leaving the rims untouched for an incredible curving, sculptural effect. This is quite a dramatic vanadinite small cabinet specimen. It is a two-sided floater with no contacts or damage. This is from a special pocket mined in September of 2001, and brought to the Denver show of that year. I recall I bought this material, a table of pieces, while stuck in Denver as the airports shut down and the show went on for a few days before petering out. This is from that batch, long hidden in our inventory here. A superb specimen of this rare pocket.