Ullmannite and Breithauptite on Calcite - image 1

Ullmannite and Breithauptite on Calcite - image 2

Ullmannite and Breithauptite on Calcite

Unknown Owner

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An excellent and showy miniature of these two metallic phases from Italy. Ullmannite is a nickel-antimony sulfide and Breithauptite is a nickel antimonide and neither are common! This piece originates from the historic Monte Narba Mine that started operations in the mid-1860s and was mined somewhat continuously for lead and silver up to 1935 when the mine closed. We rarely, if ever, see any specimens from this mine and this one is excellent for its superbly crystalline Ullmannite and Breithauptite and it has great composition and contrast. The piece is loaded with clusters of distinct, tin-white metallic cubes of Ullmannite up to 7 mm interspersed with minor, pink-red metallic clusters of small, 1 mm, crudely crystallized Breithauptite. An outstanding and unusually aesthetic full miniature! Most such specimens are reference level, lacking this kind of display impact and beauty. The piece came out of a private and significant rarities collection (anonymous for now, but will be given to buyer). From the important collection of former dealer and collector Dr. HJ Wilke, sold off by Wendel minerals, years ago.