Magnetite ps. Hematite

$16,000.00

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The ArkenstoneFeatured

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This is a stunning, unusually large and fine specimen of a magnetite pseudomorph (replacement) after original hematite crystals from a major discovery in the mid-1990s at a volcanic vent on the Payún Matrú Volcano in Argentina that produced these probably recently, in geologic time. They are sculpturally unique in all the world; and are considerably more attractive than any other "martite" from anywhere! Although production occurred in several batches over the late 1990s and early 2000s, only a very few pockets produced the most desired combination of large crystals, aesthetics, and the metallic shiny surface sparkle that you see here. This is from the earlier finds, never equaled in our opinion, and was one of the few pieces larger than 6 inches and also complete; and also sparkling. Most had dull luster. This piece features large, flattened magnetite after hematite pseudomorphs to an astounding 2.5 inches across! Combining to form a huge composite crystal at over 7 inches in length! This one is a rare larger size that commands visual respect, has a very dramatic vertical shape, and sparkles all around! There just aren't other minerals like this style; and also modern collecting is forbidden so there will surely be no more. Illustrated in Collecting Pseudomorphs: The Changelings of Mineralogy (Mineralogical Record, Jan 2025) on page 84. Comes with a custom lucite display base. Laszlo Kupi photo.