New Specimens
|
| Updated December 7, 2011 |
 |
| |
|
Chalcopyrite with Quartz - $395
Batanci Mine, Madan, Bulgaria
6.5 x 5.2 x 4.8 cm
MMB-853 - Showcasing peacock-tail iridescence, numerous chalcopyrite crystals are surrounded by limpid quartz crystals in this lovely small cabinet/large miniature specimen.
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite with Quartz - SOLD
Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico
12.6 x 10.0 cm
MMT-330 - Sharp, transparent calcite crystals crown this very large ice-white fluorite crystal from Naica (7.5 cm on edge!). Both the calcite and fluorite are in fabulous shape. The specimen rests on the cleavage that forms the "bottom" of the specimen, allowing it to sit without contacting the calcite crystals that run along each edge. Exceedingly few specimens of this size, quality, and arrangement have been recovered from this area. A substantial piece!
  
|
| |
|
|
Silver - $950
Kongsberg, Buskerud, Norway
5.3 x 3.0 cm
MMB-848 - For centuries, distinguishing collectors have considered wire silver specimens from Kongsberg to be highly desirable classics. This aesthetic miniature is well-balanced and graceful with a gold and rose patina that did not show in the photographs. Own a piece of mining history!
  
|
| |
|
|
Kunzite on Cleavelandite - $3950
Nuristan, Laghman Prov., Afghanistan
8.7 x 6.7 x 5.7 cm
MMB-854 - Perched on edge on the top of a cleavelandite rosette is a transparent pink kunzite crystal of fine quality. The kunzite measures 6.8 by 2.1 cm and is a robust 1.9 cm thick. The crystal shows good transparency and color with a well-defined termination. The opposite end is contacted. Notice the blue tourmaline crystals scattered across the matrix. Nice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite with Copper - $650
Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan, USA
5.2 x 3.5 x 3.1 cm
MMB-850 - Showcasing nice luster, this classic specimen from Michigan shimmers with copper inclusions. The main crystal is doubly-terminated and displays a fine phantom. The specimen is priced according to mild edge damage. Displays well.
  
|
| |
|
|
Siderite pseudo Azurite - SOLD
Bisbee, Warren Dist., Mule Mtns., Arizona, USA
8.3 x 5.0 x 3.5 cm
MMB-852 - This unique pseudomorph from Bisbee features a juxtaposition of textures and forms whether viewed from the front or back. Sharp-edged crystals are interspersed among botryoidal formations of various colors. Several unlabelled species are here for your exploration. Enjoy!
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite with Calcite & Barite - $500
Moscona Mine, Solis, Asturias, Spain
9.0 x 7.7 x 5.4 cm
MMB-851 - Gem-like calcite crystals encircle a bed of well-crystallized golden fluorite crystals in this attractive combination piece from the Moscona Mine in Spain. On top sits a colorless barite crystal. Both the fluorite and calcite crystals are more transparent than photos indicate with excellent luster.
  
|
| |
|
|
Copper - $595
Copper Falls Mine, Keweenaw, Michigan, USA
4.7 x 2.4 cm
MMB-849 - The main crystal in this fabulous miniature from the Copper Falls Mine runs the whole length of the specimen (4.7 cm). The piece displays well from all angles and would make a fine addition to any dispay or competition case.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite with Chalcocite - $495
Mt. Isa, Queensland, Australia
10.1 x 6.4 x 6.8 cm
MMB-844 - Surrounded by well-crystallized chalcocite (some twinned) are numerous yellow calcite crystals with distinct phantoms. Smaller calcite crystals of a different form simply coat the specimen, adding flash and contrast to this superb combination piece.
  
|
| |
|
|
Prehnite on Quartz - $395
Brandberg, Erongo Region, Namibia
9.9 x 6.0 x 6.4 cm
MMB-842 - Rising from a bed of transparent, crystallized quartz are two prehnite pillars of surprising translucency...the piece glows with even subtle lighting. Small epidote crystals also make an appearance. This unusual combination from the locality displays equally well from all angles.
  
|
| |
|
|
Hausmannite on Calcite - SOLD
Wessels Mine, Hotazel, Kalahari, South Africa
6.3 x 4.3 cm
MMT-331 -A sharp, superbly crystallized hausmannite crystal sits in perfect relief against a cluster of lustrous calcite crystals. With hundreds of faces reflecting light, the calcite vies for equal attention in this piece and help it resist any labels of being "just" another dark mineral. Very nice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Cobaltoan Calcite - $950
Bou Azzer Dist., Tazenakht, Morocco
18.2 x 9.6 cm
MMB-855 - Translucent pink cobaltoan calcite crystals cover the surface of this colorful large cabinet specimen. The well-terminated pink crystals (to 1.5 cm) stand out in nice relief against the pale--almost colorless--crystals that form the bed of the specimen.
  
|
| |
|
|
Cobaltoan Calcite - $625
Bou Azzer Dist., Tazenakht, Morocco
12.2 x 9.5 cm
MMB-856 -Translucent pink cobaltoan calcite crystals cover the surface of this colorful cabinet specimen. The well-terminated pink crystals (to 1.7 cm) stand out in nice relief against the pale--almost colorless--crystals that form the bed of the specimen.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite on Quartz - $395
Baia Sprie, Maramures Co., Romania
10.3 x 6.6 x 4.9 cm
MMB-841 - Like snow resting on crystal towers, calcite clings to the tops of transparent quartz prisms in this attractive specimen from Baia Sprie. Several calcite "disks" to 4.4 cm provide aesthetic variety. Chalcopyrite crystals intermingle among the quartz.
  
|
| |
|
|
MMB-843 - Exceedingly lustrous pyrite cubes host water-clear quartz needles as well as sphalerite crystals in this very attractive specimen from Bulgaria. The pyrite crystals measure to 2.2 cm with the quartz prisms approaching that size.
  
|
| |
|
|
Copper and Calcite - $695
Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
7.6 x 6.3 cm
MMB-847 - Dendritic copper crystals extend from a matrix of crystallized calcite in this small cabinet specimen from Tsumeb. Natural copper crystals from Tsumeb are quite rare, and this is a fine combination piece for any Tsumeb suite or worldwide collection.
  
|
| |
|
|
MMB-857 - Highly lustrous, sharp-edged sphalerite crystals reflect light from a thousand angles in this large specimen from Batanci. Stealing the show, however, are several unusually formed galena crystals and a sizable, well-formed chalcopyrite crystal. Calcite clusters can be found throughout the piece. Some quartz prisms are broken at the base, though the flash of the specimen makes up for any lack in this respect.
  
|
| |
|
|
Tarnowitzite - $495
Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
8.4 x 7.6 cm
MMB-845 - A 2.5 cm tarnowitzite crystal rests on a multi-colored matrix in this particularly attractive example of the rare, lead rich variety of aragonite. Several of the smaller tarnowitzite crystals are doubly terminated. Each is lustrous and well-formed. Quite nice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Orpiment - $295
Twin Creeks Mine, Humboldt Co., Nevada, USA
7.6 x 5.5 cm
MMB-846 - Vivid orange crystals of lustrous orpiment (to 1.7 cm) show the high level of translucency and crystallization that made this find famous. At the time, these were considered the best in the world. Even today, very few orpiment specimens approach the quality of the pieces from the Twin Creeks Mine.
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Fluorite - SOLD
Minerva #1 Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA
9.0 x 7.0 x 5.5 cm
MMY-1281 - With crystals to 4.5 cm on edge, this richly colored fluorite specimen is surprisingly transparent. An amber yellow core is surrounded by a purple zone followed by sea-blue outer layer. Gorgeous!
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz var. Amethyst - $750
Las Vigas, Vera Cruz, Mexico
9.0 x 6.0 x 5.5 cm
MMB-835 - Boasting lustrous, pristine crystals in an attractive arrangment, this amethyst specimen from Las Vigas is more aesthetic than most. The specimen displays well from any angle and is more dramatic and three-dimensional than photos indicate.
  
|
| |
|
|
Selenite - SOLD
Fuentes de Ebro, Zaragoza, Spain
4.5 x 3.4 x 5.0 cm
– ex Marty Zinn Collection
MMY-1293 - Rising like a crystal sword from the matrix, this razor-sharp selenite crystal is a joy to behold. Part of the appeal arises from the delightful way that the crystal refracts light and distorts the image of the matrix behind the 3.3 cm crystal. A truly superb miniature.
  
|
| |
|
|
Hematite with Hausmannite - $1350
N'Chwaning Mine, N. Cape Prov., S. Africa
4.5 x 2.5 x 2.2 cm
MMY-1288 - Incredibly lustrous, this sharp-edged hematite specimen features a doubly-terminated crystal juxtaposed against the mirror-bright surface of the larger crystal. An isolated hausmannite crystal nestles in the intersection of the two crystals. Hausmannite crystals surround the whole specimen. A transparent calcite crystal adds contrast and variety. Killer!
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz var. Amethyst - $1500
Brandberg, Erongo Region, Namibia
7.0 x 7.0 x 6.0 cm
MMB-834 - While you'll have to take our word for it, this amethyst specimen from Brandberg has that extra "something" that cannot be captured by a photograph or adequately in words. Perhaps it's the glassy luster or the gemmy quality and the sharp damage-free edges. Perhaps it's the aesthetic, geometric negative crystals inside the specimen (several of which contain bubbles). In all, very very nice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Chrysocolla ps. Malachite w/Wulfenite - SOLD
Whim Creek, Western Australia
5.4 x 3.1 cm
MMB-836 - Who says pseudomorphs can't be attractive! This aesthetic miniature is crowned by a rosette of chrysocolla pseudomorphed after malachite. Tiny, well-formed wulfenite crystals are scattered upon the surface of the specimen (along with several rarities).
  
|
| |
|
|
MMY-1296 -Looking like they've been frozen forever inside a wintry scene, forest green balls of atacamite have been included within doubly-terminated gypsum crystals. Drusy quartz of a light blue color adds texture contrast. This is a very attractive small cabinet specimen at an affordable price.
  
|
| |
|
|
Rosasite with Calcite - SOLD
Ojuela Mine, Mapimi, Durango, Mexico
6.2 x 4.9 x 4.7 cm
MMB-839 - Rolling folds of velvet-like rosasite fill a vug in a limonite matrix. Transparent calcite rhombs add flash and a contrasting color and texture to the green-blue of the rosasite. There are several other mineral species represented on the specimen that are as yet unidentified.
  
|
| |
|
|
Lazulite - SOLD
Yukon Territory, Canada
6.0 x 4.7 cm
MMY-1295 -Sizeable, sharp crystals of deep blue lazulite rest on a matrix surrounded by well-formed golden yellow crystals in this fine miniature from the Yukon. The crystals show some transparency and put out both blue and green flashes at some angles.
  
|
| |
|
|
Pyrite on Quartz - $295
Spruce Claim, King Co., Washington, USA
4.7 x 4.9 x 3.0 cm
MMY-1291 - This American classic features a cubic pyrite crystal with mirror-bright faces surrounded by pristine, transparent quartz prisms. A very fine miniature!
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite with Barite - $395
Berbes, Asturias, Spain
6.5 x 5.0 x 5.9 cm
MMB-837 - Shimmery white barite contrasts quite nicely with grape-purple fluorite cubes in this fine small cabinet specimen. Colorless fluorite crystals cover the back of the specimen.
 
|
| |
|
|
Quartz var. Amethyst - $495
Jackson's Crossroads, Wilkes Co., Georgia, USA
6.3 x 4.3 x 3.6 cm
MMB-838 - A sizeable well-formed amethyst crystal from the now famous American locality in Georgia boasts a very fine, medium purple color. With fairly good transparency, the crystal also shows very distinct color zoning.
  
|
| |
|
|
Barite - SOLD
Book Cliffs, Grand Junction, Colorado, USA
4.4 x 4.0 x 3.1 cm
MMY-1289 - A highly transparent barite prism measuring 2.7 cm rises from a crystallized matrix in this miniature specimen from Book Cliffs. The crystal is pristine and complexly terminated. The piece displays nicely from all angles
  
|
| |
|
|
MMB-833 - Amber-green crystals of sphalerite to 2.7 cm are surrounded by quartz prisms in this cabinet specimen from new material coming out of Bulgaria. Several galena crystals are featured as well. As is often the case, this specimen is much more three-dimensional and attractive in person. The sphalerite and galena crystals are pristine.
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Beryl var. Heliodor - SOLD
Padre Paraíso, Minas Gerais, Brazil
9.8 x 2.4 x 2.0 cm
MMY-1271 - From a new find in 2010, this gorgeous heliodor from Brazil has unusually sharp edges and a pristine pyramidal termination. The specimen displays well from any angle.
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Cobaltoan Calcite - SOLD
Bou Azer Dist., Ouarzazate Prov., Morocco
5.0 x 3.6 x 3.9 cm
MMY-1254 - With a rich, glowing pink color, this specimen shows why cobaltoan calcites from Morocco are so desireable. The largest crystal measures 2.2 cm by 1.3 cm thick and both main crystals show perfect terminations. The translucency of the crystals is quite high.
  
|
| |
|
|
Dioptase on Calcite - SOLD
Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
4.2 x 2.8 x 1.8 cm
MMY-1260 - Even with more recent finds of dioptase entering the mineral market, dioptase from Tsumeb still holds a revered spot in many collections. This specimen shows the jewel-like qualities--top luster, gemminess, and emerald green color that characterize top specimens from Tsumeb. Formed on a contrasting matrix of white calcite, the largest of the crystals measures 2.0 cm. No damage...competition quality...very choice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Vanadinite on Barite - $1250
Mibladén, Midelt, Khénifra Prov., Morocco
5.0 x 3.6 x 2.6 cm
MMY-1226 - Superb orange-red crystals with glassy luster perch on a contrasting matrix of barite in this very attractive miniature. The largest crystals measure more than a centimeter across with thicknesses of 0.7 cm. Displays well from all angles. This specimen would make a wonderful companion piece to the dioptase specimen above.
  
|
| |
|
|
Vanadinite - $950
Mibladén, Midelt, Khénifra Prov., Morocco
4.1 x 2.5 x 2.3 cm
MMY-1225 - This attractive miniature features lustrous, red crystals with a hint of orange. The largest, (hoppered) crystal measures 1.7 cm. More three-dimensional than photos suggest.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite - SOLD
Daye Mine, Hubei Province, China
8.0 x 6.2 x 3.0 cm
MMY-1243 - An aesthetic wonder, this dramatic small cabinet specimen features a 3.5 cm triangular crystal with a hexagonal phantom that mirrors the habit of the calcite crystals covering the matrix. These crystals have phantoms locked within them as well. A very small number of these came out of China a handful of years ago and were snapped up by collectors. Damage free...sublime!
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite with Quartz - $2750
Riemvasmaak, North Cape Prov., South Africa
6.2 x 5.0 x 3.6 cm
MMY-1220 -Though we've seen our fair share of fluorites from Riemvasmaak, the rich color and high degree of transparency of this specimen caught our attention. The photos only tell part of the story. Natural etching has created a quartz scepter (not visible here). Note the small fluorite crystals in the center of the piece coated by sugary quartz and the yellow fluorite on the front right of the piece.
  
|
| |
|
|
Brazilianite - $2350
Corrego Frio, Linopolis, Minas Gerais, Brazii
3.6 x 2.6 x 2.5 cm
MMY-1229 - This sharp-edged brazilianite crystal is from the original material recovered by Ed Swoboda and identified as a new mineral by Fred Pough in the 1940's. The specimen shows the characteristic high luster, yellowish green color, and gemminess that made this find famous. Though recent years have seen new material from Linopolis, the original specimens have not been eclipsed.
  
|
| |
|
|
MMY-1233 -An aesthetic spray of eosphorite crystals crowns the top of a band of rose quartz in this small cabinet specimen from Brazil. The rare phosphate zanazziite covers the surface of the specimen as well. Attractive minerals with a rarity...a great combination!
  
|
| |
|
|
Wulfenite - SOLD
Red Cloud Mine, La Paz Co., Arizona, USA
5.0 x 3.0 x 2.5 cm
MMY-1273 - Showing the deep orange color, high luster, and transparency adored by collectors the world over, this fine miniature specimen boasts a 1.6 cm crystal sitting atop the matrix. The specimen displays very well even with a small rub on the back edge.
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Sphalerite - $500
Elmwood Mine, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA
4.6 x 3.5 x 2.4 cm
MMY-1244 - A sharp-edged, purple fluorite crystal with characteristic phantoms rests atop root-beer colored sphalerite in this classic combination piece from Elmwood. A very nice miniature with superb transparency.
  
|
| |
|
|
Serandite with Natrolite - SOLD
Poudrette quarry, Mont Saint-Hilaire, Canada
4.6 x 2.5 x 1.7 cm
MMY-1228 - A vibrant, salmon-orange serandite crystal hosts numerous prismatic natrolite crystals (to 1.0 cm). This locality produced the finest serandite specimens in the world, and the combination of mineral species makes for quite a nice miniature.
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite - $3250
Hilton Mine, Cumbria, England, UK
4.8 x 5.7 x 3.1 cm
MMY-1267 - This classic English specimen features several rich, golden-yellow penetration twins of fluorite from the well-known Hilton Mine. Very few other localities supply yellow fluorites with both the saturated color and lustrous surfaces...and many would argue these are the finest.
  
|
| |
|
|
Tourmaline - $2500
Stak Nala, Baltistan, Northern Areas, Pakistan
6.6 x 4.5 x 3.4 cm
MMY-1274 - With lustrous, striated faces and semi-matte terminations, this attractive grouping of three tourmalines has a schorl core surrounded by a thick layer of spring green. A clear thin zone tops off the specimen's extremely gemmy terminations. Cleavelandite provides a contrasting accent.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite with Orpiment - $950
Shimen Mine, Shimen Co., Hunan Prov., China
6.2 x 5.5 x 3.9 cm
– ex Smale Collection
MMY-1277 - This complex, well-formed calcite crystal has a thin coating of orpiment that gives the specimen its pleasing yellow color. The main crystal measures 2.5 cm and is quite transparent. The specimen displays even better than the photos show. Another wonder from China!
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Quartz - SOLD
Shangbao Pyrite Mine, Hunan Prov., China
9.2 x 5.5 x 7.0 cm
MMY-1214 - This sculptural specimen from China looks like a backpacker climbing over rugged terrain. Quartz seams, covered with glistening quartz crystals host numerous lustrous fluorite crystals with purple cores. Displays well from multiple angles.
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Quartz "stalactite" - ON HOLD
Shangbao Pyrite Mine, Hunan Prov., China
9.0 x 4.3 x 3.5 cm
MMY-1278 - A spire of matrix, covered by quartz needles, hosts a lustrous fluorite crystal with zones of light green, purple, and blue. Complete all around.
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Dolomite with Quartz - $2350
Shangbao Pyrite Mine, Hunan Prov., China
5.5 x 5.3 x 3.5 cm
MMY-1275 - This attractive combination piece features a glassy, transparent fluorite crystal with a purple phantom at the center. The dolomite matrix is itself very well crystallized and quite lustrous. A quartz spire rises from the matrix next to the fluorite. From a find near the end of 2008.
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Quartz - $3000
Shangbao Pyrite Mine, Hunan Prov., China
5.6 x 2.8 x 2.1 cm
MMY-1258 - Perfectly complementing each other, a sharp-edged and very lustrous quartz cluster is paired with an equally lustrous and beautiful fluorite crystal group. The fluorite is a light bluish-green with a purple phantom. Cookeite adds variety to this aesthetic arrangement. This piece would be perfect (and much pricier) but for a contact on the fluorite crystal. It displays quite nicely nonetheless.
  
|
| |
|
|
MMY-1230 - A wonder to hold in the hand and admire, this unique miniature features numerous, sharp fluorite crystals that are simply bursting with jamesonite needles. The faces of the fluorite are lustrous (on the display side...the back has lower luster due to inclusions). Note that what appears to be dirt on the quartz is actually a sprinkling of pyrite. The quartz also is included by jamesonite. Fascinating!
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Silver on matrix - SOLD
Dzhezkazgan Mine, Kazakhstan
7.4 x 4.6 x 2.7 cm
MMB-811 - Curling, interweaving wires of silver form an extremely attractive natural sculpture in this specimen from Kazakhstan. The silver has a fine golden-silver patina. The overall proportion of silver and matrix is quite ideal. Fabulous!
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Malachite with Mimetite - SOLD
Touissit, Oujda-Angad Prov., Morocco
3.5 x 2.2 x 2.0 cm
MMB-822 - Lustrous yellow sprays of mimetite adorn several unusually sharp malachite pseudomorphs after azurite in this very aesthetic thumbnail/small miniature from Touissit. Photographs do not do this piece justice. It is truly a competition-level specimen.
  
|
| |
|
|
Vanadinite on Barite - $2000
Mibladén, Midelt, Khénifra Prov., Morocco
5.2 x 3.9 x 3.2 cm
MMB-832 - Vanadinite specimens can be found at most shows. When we acquire an example, we look for the vibrant red color, mirror luster, and sharp crystals on white barite that this specimen exhibits. The largest crystal measures 1.5 cm. We've done the searching for you. Add this beauty to your collection today!
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz var. Amethyst - $2000
Goboboseb Mt., Brandberg, Erongo, Namibia
9.0 x 8.9 x 4.0 cm
MMB-830 - Attractively striated and showing superb luster, this quartz specimen from Brandberg has both a sharp amethyst phantom and smoky quartz zones. As is expected, this specimen has a number of fascinating negative crystals that make it a joy to hold and examine. With no repairs, the piece is priced in accordance with a contact area on the back of the left crystal. Displays quite nicely!
  
|
| |
|
|
Sulfur - $1250
Agrigento Province, Sicily, Italy
4.9 x 2.9 x 2.0 cm
MMB-804 - With a screaming yellow color, this 2.5 cm sulfur crystal is a superb example of the elemental species. The piece is surprisingly gemmy and finely crystallized. The Sicilian sulfur deposits no longer produce, and fine examples such as this come mostly from old collections.
  
|
| |
|
|
Tourmaline - $2000
Himalaya Mine, San Diego Co., California, USA
5.6 x 2.8 x 2.1 cm
MMB-785 - A very attractive, doubly-terminated tourmaline from the world-famous Himalaya Mine displays a lustrous pyramidal termination with a cranberry color followed by a vibrant pink color zone. Near the equally lustrous basal termination, the specimen has a light green, light pink, dark pink zonation. This area is particularly gemmy. There are no repairs.
  
|
| |
|
|
MMB-831 - Twin prisms of limpid quartz host several amber-green uvite crystals along with hematite included dolomite in this lovely small cabinet specimen from Brumado. One is hard-pressed to find an attachment point on this specimen, and it displays well from any angle. Quite nice!
  
|
| |
|
|
Inesite - $1000
Wessels Mine, Hotazel, Kalahari, South Africa
5.3 x 4.5 x 4.6 cm
– ex D. Sacco Collection
MMB-858 - This sizable inesite ball from the Wessels Mine of South Africa shows a deep rich red color. The white and brown areas visible in the photo are not damage but associated mineralization. Much nicer in person...the photos do not do this piece justice.
  
|
| |
|
|
Galena with Calcite - SOLD
Sweetwater Mine, Reynolds Co., Missouri, USA
12.4 x 7.0 x 11.2 cm
MMB-817 - Several gemmy yellow calcite crystals provide pleasing contrast to the lustrous intergrown galena crystals in this large cabinet classic from the Sweetwater Mine. Note the juxtaposition of the cubic and octahedral habits. The back of the specimen is also crystallized (see the large photo by clicking on the left). What's not to like?
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Siderite on Quartz - $200
Dal'negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Russia
9.5 x 1.9 x 1.7 cm
MMB-788 - Orange siderite balls cling to a towering quartz spire coated with a second generation of mineralization. What cannot be captured on the screen is the shimmery luster this piece displays. Displaying well from any angle, this large crystal is a very nice and affordable small cabinet specimen.
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Prehnite on Epidote - $250
Bendoukou, Kayes Region, Mali
4.3 x 2.7 x 2.0 cm
MMP-2002 - This competition level miniature features a translucent, lime-green prehnite ball perched attractively on a sharp, doubly-terminated epidote crystal. The piece is complete and undamaged with unusually nice terminations.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite - $1250
Sarbaiskoe deposit, Kostanay Prov., Kazakhstan
6.6 x 5.7 x 3.5 cm
MMB-795 - A cluster of golden-yellow, twinned calcite crystals rests on a matrix coated with small, pale yellow calcites. The transparency of the specimen is quite nice...better than photos can show. There are no cleaved edges. Each crystal is complete and wonderfully formed with curving lines, selective frosting and light striations.
  
|
| |
|
|
Grossular Garnet - SOLD
Jeffrey Quarry, Asbestos, Quebec, Canada
4.8 x 4.5 x 3.0 cm
MMB-783 - Accentuated by a black and white matrix,an isolated, sharp grossular crystal (1.7 cm) is accompanied by an arc of smaller crystals. Note the transparency of the crystals is so good that you can see the matrix clearly through the grossular. Clusters of smaller crystals with selective frosting perch on the larger crystals, adding an extra appeal to this piece.
  
|
| |
|
|
Tourmaline with Lepidolite - $1250
Himalaya Mine, San Diego Co., California, USA
4.4 x 2.7 x 2.2 cm
MMB-786 - Three intergrown pink tourmalines with gemmy, lustrous terminations host accenting lepidolite crystals in this fine miniature from the famous Himalaya Mine in San Diego County. The crystals are in great condition. The photographs do not do the piece justice. There are some contact points from lepidolite crystals that appear in the photos as damage but are not.
  
|
| |
|
|
Benitoite - $1250
Dallas Gem Mine, San Benito Co., California
2.8 x 1.8 x 1.5 cm
MMB-792 - Reminiscent of a stormy sea or an abstract painting, this benitoite thumbnail shows a complete crystal both front and back with good gemminess at the tips. The green inclusions add a bit of extra drama to the piece. A fine thumbnail!
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz cast after Calcite - $750
Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
10.5 x 10.0 x 4.0 cm
MMB-523 - This quartz cast after calcite from Tsumeb simply sparkles with light. The black specks are fine fibers of an unknown dark mineral included within the quartz. Note the back of the specimen is just as interesting (if not more so) than the front. Would make a fabulous and unique addition to a Tsumeb suite.
  
|
| |
|
|
Pyrargyrite with Calcite - SOLD
Preoano Mine, Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico
3.5 x 2.8 x 2.6 cm
– ex Sam Nasser Collection
MMB-757 - This LARGE, thick crystal of pyrargyrite simply glows with red when backlit, showing surprising transparency. Covering the termination are doubly-terminated calcites which are in turn covered by rhombs of an unknown reddish-orange mineral. This superb miniature shows no damage and is just a smokin' piece for the species.
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Magnesite with Hematite - $950
Brumado, Bahia, Brazil
3.9 x 3.0 x 2.2 cm
MMB-763 - With intricacies that make you want to hold this piece in your hand and examine it, this sharp, naturally-facetted magnesite specimen is included by hematite blades. The criss-cross pattern formed by triangular growth features on opposite sides of the crystal is particularly fascinating.
  
|
| |
|
|
Grossular Garnet - SOLD
Jeffrey Quarry, Asbestos, Quebec, Canada
4.5 x 3.0 x 2.0 cm
MMB-762 - A rich orange, highly transparent "jewel" of a grossular crystal (1.7 cm) lies isolated on a contrasting dark matrix in this lovely specimen from the acclaimed Jeffrey Quarry in Quebec. Two smaller crystals with a different habit show characteristic striations and bevelled edges surrounding diamond faces.
  
|
| |
|
|
Mimetite - SOLD
Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
3.4 x 1.7 x 0.7 cm
MMB-771 - This classic thumbnail from Tsumeb features several orange-yellow mimetite crystals with gemmy tips. The largest, doubly-terminated crystal measures 2.7 cm. Mimetite specimens from Tsumeb are very rare and difficult to acquire. This fine thumbnail would make a fine addition to any thumbnail collection or Tsumeb suite.
  
|
| |
|
|
Malachite - SOLD
Planet Mine, Santa Maria Dist., La Paz, Arizona
6.4 x 4.1 x 5.5 cm
– ex George Robinson Collection
MMB-768 - Botryoidal, turquoise green malachite richly covers the surface of this fine specimen...old material from the Planet Mine in Arizona.
 
|
| |
|
|
|
Stibnite - $950
Baia Sprie, Maramures County, Romania
7.0 x 7.2 x 4.7 cm
MMB-760 - A dramatic spray of acicular stibnite crystals from Romania crowns the top of a matrix covered with siderite. Numerous siderite rhombs are sprinkled throughout the stibnite blades. Equally impressive from all angles. Specimens of this quality from this classic European locality are very seldomly seen.
  
|
| |
|
|
Galena, Sphalerite, Quartz - $600
Gjudurska Mine, Ziatograd Dist., Bulgaria
15.5 x 14.5 x 5.0 cm
MMB-759 - Mirror-bright, sharp galena crystals rest on a bed of quartz needles alongside sphalerite clusters in this large specimen from Bulgaria. The contrast between textures and "colors" makes for a lovely display. The back of the specimen hosts a number of additional galena crystals and quartz spears. From a new and exciting find (2010), this piece is attractive, affordable, and can be yours!
 
|
| |
|
|
Hubnerite on Quartz - $850
Mundo Nuevo Mine, Huamachuco, Peru
6.0 x 5.1 x 4.2 cm
MMB-761 - An explosion of transparent quartz prisms surrounds several, finely formed hubnerite crystals in this small cabinet specimen from Peru. The largest crystal measures roughly 3 cm and has lightly striated, lustrous faces. Very nice from all angles.
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Fluorite with Arsenopyrite - $2500
Yaogangxian Mine, Chenzhou, Hunan, China
7.5 x 5.8 x 5.3 cm
MMY-1215 - Explaining our love affair with Chinese fluorites, this lovely specimen shows multiple purple phantoms inside a 2.8 cm main crystal. The edges are sharp, the crystal complete from all angles. The luster and transparency are superb. An arsenopyrite crystal accompanies the fluorite on a bed of muscovite. You will not be disappointed with this piece.
– lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Wulfenite on Descloizite - $1350
Erupcion-Ahumada Mine, Los Lamentos, Mexico
4.0 x 3.0 x 2.6 cm
MMS-235 - This killer miniature specimen features a thick, sizeable wulfenite crystal (2.5 x 2.4 x 0.7 cm) nicely isolated on matrix with a few sidecar crystals. Showing the saturated orange color and top luster that made wulfenite specimens from LL so famous, this piece is simply...perfect.
  
|
| |
|
|
Marcasite on Enargite - $395
Quiruvilca Mine, La Libertad Dept., Peru
4.7 x 3.5 x 2.5 cm
MMB-704 - A drusy layer of marcasite glitters on enargite crystals (to 2.5 cm), catching the eye and inviting a closer look. The specimen is nicely three-dimensional. The marcasite selectively coats the enargite, creating a pleasing contrast between brass and steely gray, rough texture and smooth.
  
|
| |
|
|
Calcite on matrix - $2500
Sokolovskiy Mine, Kostanai Oblast', Kazakhstan
9.5 x 6.9 x 4.5 cm
MMY-1210 - A golden-yellow, twinned calcite crystal (6.5 cm) rests on a matrix covered with smaller clear calcites. Though a fair number of these were found in the late 90's, this piece stands apart with its high transparency, attractive matrix, and overall mesmerizing quality. You can gaze straight through the crystal to see the sparkling matrix beneath. Lovely!
– lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Fluorite on Matrix - $2500
Dolomite Products Quarry, Penfield, New York
5.2 x 2.8 x 3.4 cm
MMY-1213 - With extreme transparency, sharp edges, and large size, this pale blue fluorite crystal--2.6 cm on matrix--from the Dolomite Products Quarry is clearly among the best found at the locality. Be assured the photos do not convey the true nature of this piece due to refraction and reflection. These are quite difficult to find in high quality in the marketplace today.
– lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz var. Smoky Quartz - SOLD
Lincoln County, New Mexico, USA
8.8 x 4.1 x 4.7 cm
MMY-1209 - Three brilliant smoky quartz spires rise from matrix, showcasing great luster, transparency, and a series of distinct phantoms. The largest crystal measures 7.3 cm. Each crystal is lightly and attractively striated and sharp-edged. This famous locality-- supplying world-class smoky quartz specimens in its day--is within a national park now, meaning new collecting is off-limits. A fabulous small cabinet smoky quartz from a classic American locality!
  
|
| |
|
|
|
Aquamarine with Schorl - $550
Pingwu Co., Sichuan Prov., China
4.6 x 3.0 x 3.7 cm
MMB-689 - A sharp, lustrous and transparent aquamarine crystal hosts a network of fine schorl needles in this gorgeous miniature from China. The crystal measures 3.0 cm and shows attractive hexagonal growth patterns. Muscovite accompanies the aquamarine on the white matrix.
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz "Herkimer Diamond" - SOLD
Middleville, Herkimer Co., New York, USA
11.6 x 6.4 x 4.0 cm
MMB-693 - A cluster of three high quality "Herkimer Diamond" crystals includes a very large (7.5 cm) main crystal attached to matrix. The crystals are, of course, much more transparent than photos indicate. The great majority of Herkimer specimens are repaired, and the lower crystal on this piece was reattached to its host matrix. An American classic!
– custom lucite base
  
|
| |
|
|
Tourmaline & Friends - $750
Himalaya Mine, San Diego Co., California, USA
8.4 x 7.0 x 4.6 cm
MMB-690 - A juicy, pink tourmaline crystal with complete termination is accompanied by all the major constituents of a pegmatite pocket: crystallized quartz, feldspar, lepidolite, and clevelandite. The lepidolite itself is quite attractive with its deep purple glow when backlit. Own a piece of San Diego County history.
  
|
| |
|
|
Quartz with Tourmaline - SOLD
Himalaya Mine, San Diego Co., California, USA
7.9 x 4.6 x 4.9 cm
MMB-692 - Numerous super-fine tourmaline needles radiate in different directions within a light smoky quartz specimen from the famous Himalaya Mine. A terminated, bi-color pink and green tourmaline (3.2 cm) formed near the sharp termination of the quartz. Please note that this piece is re-crystallized on the bottom. A beauty from San Diego County!
  
|
| |
|
|
|
|
