Incredible cherry-red Rhodochrosite crystals from South Africa

This is a superb example of gorgeous cherry-red rhodochrosite crystals from the N’Chwaning mines. These well-formed crystals display amazing luster, color and "gemminess." The large scalenohedral crystals actually have an interesting truncated termination where the tips are flattened.

The intense red hue is due to a high concentration of Manganese inclusions. When this "flower" is flipped over, the backside is also appealing as the contact point is visible, and it becomes evident how this stunning piece grew. The crystals are darker near the core and become lighter near the termination as the crystals grew outward overtime. One more incredible aspect of this piece is the internal visible structure in the transparent crystals; they appear almost as white phantom crystals.

Rhodochrosite of this style came from N'Chwaning in the early 1980s, and today is elusive to find on the market. This cabinet size specimen reminds me like a flower. This cabinet-size specimen has great color, good luster, and sharp, distinct crystals exhibiting a classic morphology for this famous late 1970’s find. Rhodochrosite specimens of this quality have not been found at N’Chwaning in many years, and this is a showy example of this highly sought-after classic

This is a world-class example from a very famous locality.

Location: From N'Chwaning Mine, N'Chwaning Mines, Kuruman Kalahari manganese field, Northern Cape Province, South Africa

Measures: 3.07 x 2.70 x 1.94 inches (7.79 x 6.85 x 4.93 cm) in total size

And many thanks to Laszlo Kupi from Finemineralphotography for this fantastic shot! @finemineralphotography