Spodumene var. Kunzite

Unknown Owner

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This sharp and complete 89-gram crystal is one of a small group we can present here of some the best crystallized material still surviving from this important old mine that goes back over 100 years. Found in the modern era recovery efforts here: In 1951 Reynolds mined a large pocket which yielded 300 pounds of fine gem spodumene which ranged from colorless to pale pink to pale green. These particular specimens were acquired at that time or later by San Diego heiress and mineral patron Josephine Scripps, and then passed on to Bill Larson when he dispersed her own collection later. Pala Intl, run by Bill Larson (who has owned them until now), also had a go at the mining. In 1973, Pala International of Fallbrook acquired the San Pedro mine and began working the deposit. Some of the surface workings were expanded by using a dozer, and some of the underground workings were extended for short distances. However, little has been found since the glory days of the 1950s. The history on this place is fascinating! More here : https://www.mindat.org/loc-21155.html. From the important and long held personal San Diego County Collection of William "Bill" Larson, longtime owner of the Himalaya Mine, discoverer of the famous Queen Mine BlueCap pocket, and numerous other San Diego mining projects over the last 60 years and more.