Hematite

Unknown Owner

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Superb, large, thin, platy crystals of overlapping, almost parallel growth, mirror-like Hematites from Itabira dominate this great piece. The largest of the two component crystals measures 2.5 inches across, and its companion is 1.5 inches in maximum dimension. Both are thin, with well-developed, modified beveled edges and incredibly lustrous, broad crystal faces that display subtle subtle triangular growth shapes on one side, and linear ones on the other side. The photos indicate just how good the reflective, lustrous surfaces of these crystals are and we needed to dim down the light to capture the surface detail; the combination of luster and sharpness is really much better in person! Interestingly, it originates from the old childhood collection of Joel Bartsch, now the president of the Houston Museum of Natural History. He sold it to David and Emily Stoudt in the early 1990s and it comes with their label noting the purchase.