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Sale 61
Manuscript, Collectibles and Aerospace Auction
| Lot |
Photo |
Description |
Realized |
Lot 654 |
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Significant, Flaring Tourmaline Crystal. Paprok, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan
This is a magnificent, imposing Tourmaline that flares outwards towards its termination to maximize visual impact. It weighs an astonishing 7.1 pounds. Seldom does a natural tourmaline crystal attain this size and importance without need of a repair or restoration. This particular specimen is complete all around and nearly pristine, except only for trivial damage to small secondary crystals that are accents.
This piece has a broad and lustrous termination that is both geometrically simple and complex in color and hue patterns. The specimen is very symmetric all around and has an atypical crystal shape that is most noteworthy. This is a rare prize from a land where fine specimens are becoming harder and harder to obtain. Many top dealers and collectors consider these Alpine Tourmalines as eminently worthy additions to fine collections. Some are even buying these specimens as investments because surface deposits are exhausted and building mining infrastructure for the pursuit of deeper veins is extremely unlikely over the next several years.
Measures 15 x 12 x 11 cm (6 inches tall).
Weighs 7.1 pounds.
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $125,000 - 135,000.
A private collection in Seoul, South Korea.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 655 |
 |
Important Natural Silver Specimen From "King's Mountain, Norway". Major Silver-Kongsberg with acanthite. Kongsberg, Norway.
Kongsberg is the world's foremost old locality for collectible natural specimens of wire silver. Some, like this piece, date back over a hundred years or more and have been passed down to us through multiple collections. This is a sinuous, lithe and LARGE (6.5 inches tall) specimen of artistically entwined silver wires. To some it resembles sinuous willows; and to others it looks like a striking snake - hence the nickname "The silver "cobra."
This specimen's aesthetic beauty radiates not just due to its overall form, but also from its unique patina (composed of minute bornite and chalcopyrite crystals) that gives it a "sparkle" in person. This natural and complex patina is impossible to duplicate or fake, indicating a natural coloration and proving the piece has not been cleaned with modern chemistry to make it brighter. The piece is very robust in very aspect, which is quite different from what you normally see in the way of elegant wire silvers (which are usually fragile and can be manipulated by bending).
A classic Kongsberg silver of this size is almost never seen for sale on the modern market. It retains an old label (probably more than 100 years old). During the 1960s-1970s it found its way from Europe into the Richard Barstow collection, who was the pre-eminent collector and dealer of his day. After his untimely death, it passed to the collection of scientist Dr. Edward E. David (President Nixon's science advisor as well as head of the White House Office of Science and Technology). Dr. David exchanged the piece with another well-known collector, Lawrence Conklin, in the early 2000s.
Measures 14.0 x 8.5 x 4.0 cm (6.5 inches tall).
Comes with a custom display pedestal of black wood.
NOTE: includes an old parchment label, dated to the mid to late 1800s.
Estimated Value $120,000 - 140,000.
Dr. Edward E. David collection, Richard Barstow Collection, Lawrence Conklin Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 656 |
 |
Emerald (Unusually Large Gem Crystal). Cosquez Mine, Boyaca Department, Colombia
This Beryl-Emerald is over 460 carats or nearly 100 grams in mass. Few natural emerald crystals reach this size and attain such uniform intensity of color. The crystal has large gemmy regions that could cut stones, and is itself translucent to transparent around the edges and well into the depths of the crystal. The termination is complete, though it shows some small natural wear, considered acceptable in a gemstone crystal of this magnitude. It shows perfect hexagonal form, typical of smaller emeralds but rarely seen in crystals of large size.
The piece was formerly in the well known collection of Martin Zinn III of Denver, Colorado. It sold in 2003, and since then resides in a private gem crystal collection. This exceedingly large emerald crystal is a treasure worthy of a coronation sceptre, and the size to be seen from across the room. It is a major gemstone crystal and among the largest stones to come this locality.
Measures 4.7 x 3.5 x 3.4 cm.
Size: 460 carats.
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $90,000 - 100,000.
Provenance: Ex. Martin Zinn Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Realized
$52,800 |
Lot 657 |
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Scarce Sweet Home Rhodochrosite. Graham's Pocket, Sweet Home Mine, Alma, Colorado
The Sweet Home Mine has produced the finest rhodochrosite on the planet, and since its closure nearly a decade ago, major pieces have been in high demand and are even scarcer on the market. This large specimen (850 grams) features a large and centrally-displayed single crystal measuring 5 x 4 cm (technically referred to as "dominant crystal aesthetics" in the field).
The color is characterized as a top cherry-red hue, as opposed to the more strawberry-colored crystals common in lower echelon specimens. This specimen's form dramatically emphasizes the sharp ridge of freestanding crystals atop the piece, accenting the large central crystal. There is no damage to any major crystal, and no repairs. The bright and lustrous rhodochrosites are accented by small crystals of fluorite, tetrahedrite, and quartz.
This piece is one of the few specimens recovered from "Graham's Pocket" in the late 1990s, regarded as one of the premier pockets at the mine because it produced large crystals with juicy color. Most known Graham's Pocket specimens are in private collections and inaccessible, making this a rarity in terms of the population available.
Measures 10 x 10 x 6 cm.
Weighs 850 grams.
A custom base for display is included.
Estimated Value $85,000 - 100,000.
Private Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 658 |
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Aquamarine (blue variety of Beryl). Spring Mine, Bongala, Shigar Valley, Northern Areas, Pakistan
This is a remarkably large museum-quality specimen. This intensely blue crystal has the lustre of glass combined with a rich, saturated, sky-blue color. Aquamarine crystals have been prized for use in gemstones for thousands of years. This piece was recently on display in the "Heard Natural History Museum" in McKinney, Texas)
The finest crystals come from only a few mining regions. The famous Shigar Valley of Northern Pakistan has produced most of the world's exceptional and desired crystals for the species, but few combine the qualities of geometric perfection with color and lustre as does this specimen.
The crystal is large (966 grams), complete, and shows a sharp ideal hexagonal form. Its association with smaller aquamarine crystals, and shiny metallic muscovite mica plates, provide welcome accents to the thick central pillar.
Measures: 16 x 8 x 5.8 cm (6.4 inches tall).
Weight: 966 grams.
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $75,000 - 85,000.
Private Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 659 |
 |
Kongsberg Native Silver Wire With Calcite. Kongsberg Silver Mines, Kongsberg, Buskerud, Norway.
Kongsberg is the "Holy Grail" of Silver localities. A Kongsberg on matrix with a Calcite rhomb is even more out of the ordinary. The Silver wires and Calcite actually sit atop a matrix of host rock, which is only visible on the backside. Jutting out to the left is a thick (around 1 cm) wire that ends with a curl and balancing it on the right is a 2.7 cm Calcite. There are the typical cleavages on some faces but this does not distract from the aesthetics. The main wire starts from an area between the two branches and rises about 10 cm through a series of twists and bends. Visually, the specimen is extremely pleasing and attractive and almost takes on the appearance of a "Silver flame." The vertical wire begins at 1 cm in thickness and gradually narrows as it pushes upwards towards the final termination. The surfaces are lustrous and original.
Measures 11.5 by 5 cm.
Estimated Value $55,000 - 65,000.
Ex. Hans Erickson, Bergmann Mineral Collections.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 660 |
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Museum Quality Rhodochrosite on Quartz Point Matrix. Ceresco Ridge Area of the Climax Mine, Fremont Pass, Lake County, Colorado.
This specimen is from one of the rarest Rhodochrosite localities in the world. A good Climax Rhodo is incredibly difficult to find and finding a better specimen than this one will be daunting. This is an exceptional plate of American classic rhodochrosite.
When a Climax Rhodo occasionally is available for sale, it has incomplete rhombs without matrix or even rarer - a partial or coated rhomb on matrix. The holy grail for Rhodo collectors is a good sized plate of Quartz crystals with large, complete, deeply colored (and uncoated) rhombs. This specimen meets the strict criteria for excellence.
The few incomplete Quartz points and the few Quartz points slightly coated with Calcite offer no distraction to the specimen's aesthetic appeal. These very points lead to the gorgeous rhombs of Rhodochrosite which are complete and glow a translucent cherry-red blush. The larger rhombs measure 4.6 cm and 2.6 cm, while several smaller ones are 1 cm in size. At least a dozen rhombs of various sizes can be counted.
Measures 8.9 by 11.3 cm in total size.
Estimated Value $55,000 - 65,000.
Ex. Gerstley Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 661 |
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Rare and Unique Dioptase on Calcite. Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Namibia.
The contrast of the different textures of brilliant green dioptase makes this one of the most unusual dioptase specimens available on the market in some time. Dioptase such as this represents the world's best of species and is hard to obtain. This specimen is large and visually appealing and rare on the market. The Tsumeb Mine, in fact, is world renowned and has produced some of the most amazing dioptase mineral specimens for collectors.
On a slightly technical note, this particular specimen shows more than one generation of crystal growth. The large dioptase crystals (to approx. 1 cm) grew upon the most desirable matrix - contrasting, white calcite crystals. Extraordinarily, after the major dioptase crystals were formed, a SECOND generation of micro-sized dioptase crystallization occurred. This resulted in a very thin layer of tiny, sugary sparkle atop the already glassy and lustrous dioptase on the left side of the specimen.
This piece is undamaged, and of sufficient size to visually impress. Interestingly, lesser specimens have sold in other mineral auctions for similar prices as suggested here, without offering this uniqueness of quality and individuality as well as the sparkling color. This specimen was displayed until recently on special loan to the exhibition Mineral Treasures at the Beijing Museum of Natural History, in China.
Measures 9.8 x 7.6 x 4.8 cm.
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $45,000 - 50,000.
Beijing Musuem of Natural History 2010 exhibition.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 662 |
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Topaz - Giant Perfect Champagne-Colored Crystal. Pedro Azul, Minas Gerais, Brazil
This monstrous topaz crystal is one of the finest large topaz crystals to come to market for the specimen collector. It is a shocking size and especially significant since it retained such geometric precision in its growth. Miraculously, it is free of any substantial damage that the astute collector would expect in such a large specimen (from both in situ as well as dealer/collector handling).
This piece weighs 8 pounds and is perfectly complete in addition to being well formed, 360 degrees around. The color is a perfect "champagne" hue that is highly prized in topaz. Spectacularly large specimens like this often find their way to museums because they seldom occur in nature. This was likely mined in the 1950s-1970s and was once in the noted Destrem Collection in Paris, France (famous for its large suite of important gem crystals).
Measure 29 x 11 x 5 cm (11.5 inches tall).
Weighs: 8 pounds.
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $40,000 - 50,000.
Destrem Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 663 |
 |
Bubbly Smithsonite. From Kelly Mine, Magdalena, Socorro County, New Mexico
The typical crystal habit of Smithsonite is an appealing form called botryoidal, which has the appearance of grape bunches, resulting in a rounded, bubbly landscape. This piece comes from a locality famous around the world for providing specimens with silky to pearly lustre and deep colors.
Smithsonite is a zinc carbonate mineral found as a secondary mineral in zinc deposits and occurs in many colors and forms. Interestingly, it's named after James Smithson, a British mineralogist, whose wealth founded the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
Measures: 20.5 x 21.5 cm
Size inches: 8 x 8.5 in.
Estimated Value $37,500 - 40,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 664 |
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Treasured Tanzanite (750 carats). Merelani Mine, Arusha, Tanzania
At approximately 750 carats, this is a very large and impressive Tanzanite crystal showing a striking duality of colors - purple on the sides and intense blue on the front view plane. The contrast is seen simply by turning the crystal 90 degrees, This duality effect is what makes Tanzanite gemstones so treasured, as the change of colors from intense blue to intense purple makes them very eye-catching.
Tanzanite is a rare, natural gem variety and occurs in this intensely colorful form from only a small mining district in Tanzania, East Africa. As with most tanzanite gems and crystals, this specimen was slightly heated after mining to enhance the natural dual colorations to their highest quality. Over time, the production of quality specimens have declined and the mines have been consolidated, leading to price increases at the source. Today, large crystals are hard to find and have gradually become more expensive.
The crystal cluster is complete all around (360-degrees) except for a few small abrasions on the backside. This particular crystal has a substantial intrinsic value of gemstone rough within its termination and from these large transparent areas fancy gems can be cut.
Measures: 8.4 x 3.5 x 3 cm.
Weighs approx. 750 carats (150 grams = huge).
A custom lucite base for display is included.
Estimated Value $35,000 - 45,000.
Private Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 665 |
 |
Significant and Aesthetic Amethyst Group. From Amatitlan, Mun. de Zumpango del Rio, Guerrero, Mexico
This dramatic and artistic amethyst makes its presence known by its contrasting violet hues and striking crystal array. It is a delightful extravagance in violet. The Greek historian Hieronymus reported that eagles placed an amethyst in their nest in order to protect their young from danger.
The larger elongated crystals tend to be a bit fat around the middle area and taper to typical quartz terminations. The hues are very dark and rich in the core and the termination. Amethyst is the violet to purple coloration and the most important gem variety of quartz. The purple color is caused by iron impurities.
There are hundreds of localities for amethyst around the world but the size and perfection of specimens from Guerrero are highly prized. And this specimen is one of the largest amethyst groups recovered from Guerrero. It was housed in a private collection for many years.
Measures 28 x 15.5 cm.
Size inches: 11 x 6 in.
Estimated Value $33,000 - 35,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 666 |
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Tremendous Large Cabinet Plate of Beryl Var. Aquamarine on Muscovite. Mt. Xuebaoding, Ping Wu, Sichuan Province, China.
This piece is one the very finest Chinese Aquamarine plates seen outside of a museum. The many light reflections jumping off of each gem crystal add to the aesthetic and appealing qualities of this museum quality specimen. Two dozen or more tabular Aquas reside on this huge plate and all are well colored and transparent down to the Muscovite. The largest Aquamarines measure 7.5 cm and 6 cm in size.
The elusive and tantalizing qualities of this piece make for an exotic viewing experience.
Measures 12.5 by 25 by 14 cm.
Comes with a custom made, engraved base.
Estimated Value $32,000 - 35,000.
Ex. Smale Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 667 |
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Exceptional Spodumene, var. Kunzite with Tourmaline. Kunzite variety of spodumene. From Mawi deposit, north of Jalalabad, Laghman Province, Afghanistan
This large, well-crystallized specimen is bold, jazzy and powerful in appearance.
The Kunzite variety of spodumene is a pink lithium aluminum silicate. The variety is named after George Frederick Kunz (1856-1932), an American mineralogist who worked at Tiffany & Co. This is a lovely, pink-colored large crystal on native matrix with a smattering of green tourmalines providing a nice color contrast. The specimen has been "reinforced" on the backside of the matrix as a precautionary measure, due to the massive size of the crystal.
Measures: 22.85 x 25.5 cm
Size inches: 9 x 10 in.
Estimated Value $29,000 - 34,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 668 |
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Aquamarine with Bi-Color Fluorite. Nagar, Hunza Valley, Gilgit District, Northern Areas Pakistan.
This is a gorgeous large cabinet specimen. Both the Aquamarine crystals and large Fluorite sit atop a matrix of Muscovite and Albite. Glassy blue crystals swarm over this plate from top to bottom. The upright crystal at top measures over 7 cm in height and the fat crystals in cluster to the right measure over 6.5 cm in width. These crystals, rehealed on the backside (during a natural process that allowed early formative imperfections to be healed by continued crystal growth), are all perfectly terminated with flat tops.
The pink and green Fluorite hugs the fattest Aqua termination and also measures nearly 6.5 cm in width. On the far left you can see two blocky Albite crystals with a small pink Fluorite.
Measures 17.5 x 18 x 11 cm.
Estimated Value $28,000 - 35,000.
Ex. Edward David Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 669 |
 |
Brilliant Native Gold With Petzite on Pink Granite. Nugget Pond Gold Mine, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada.
An exceptionally fine and very rare specimen from this now closed and very short lived mining locality. Very few large specimens originated from this locality and specimens of this quality can probably be counted on the fingers of one hand. The black mineral on the right side is Petzite, which is a fairly scarce Telluride mineral (Ag3AuTe2). The matrix beneath the Native Gold is beautiful pink Granite, which is the calling card for this particular mine.
This rare native gold specimen offers more than the pleasure of owning bullion since it offers aesthetic form and eye-catching color contrast.
Measures 8 by 7 by 5 cm.
Comes with a custom made base.
Estimated Value $28,000 - 32,000.
Ex. Kevin Ward.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 670 |
 |
Incredible Sprays of Proustite with Acanthite and Native Silver on Calcite Crystals. Himmelfurst Mine, Freiberg District, Erzgeberg, Saxony, Germany.
This classic old museum piece dates back to the 1850's and is quite simply one of the finest specimens of German Proustite on matrix. The Proustite has been well protected and still has considerable redness in the crystals. The addition of Acanthite and Native Silver wires makes the piece extraordinary. Even the matrix is composed of sharp, well formed and stacked Calcite crystals.
Measures: 8.5 x 7 cm.
Comes with a custom made, labeled stand.
Estimated Value $28,000 - 32,000.
Ex. Kevin Ward.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 671 |
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Kunzite Crystal and Gem Set (rough and cut). Urucum mine, Galileia, Doce valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil
The two items in this set come from the same mine and both are possessed of top color and lustre. They constitute a rare pair of high collectible value. The crystal is particularly sharp and hatchet-like with both glassy and lustrous qualities while the gem offers a nearly solid intense pink gem rough. The set is both specimen quality AND gem material at the same time, giving it an intrinsic "gem value." This unusual and exciting duo will appeal to most collectors' interest for an objet d'art of pristine natural beauty. The GEM CRYSTAL, moreover, is even MORE NOTABLE as a specimen because it is a "floater" - complete all around, with faces on every edge and no breaks or attachment points.
For many years, the finest pink kunzite rough crystals for the gem trade came from Brazil. During this locale's heyday period (generally the 1920s-1980s), nearly all large natural crystals of gem quality came from here. Today large kunzite crystals are still rare but now come predominantly from Afghanistan.
The crystal was formerly in the noted mineral collection of Jack Halpern of San Francisco, California. It likely dates to the mid-1900s. Specimens like this are seldom seen. The gemstone is from the collection of John Grieger (1910-1981) and was sold when his family estate was broken up a few years ago.
Measures: 15 x 10 x 5 cm (crystal) and 3.5 x 2.8 x 2.4 cm (gem).
Weighs: 743 grams crystal and approx 170 carats gem.
Comes with a custom display base.
Estimated Value $28,000 - 35,000.
Jack Halpern (B. 1910) Collection (CRYSTAL); John Grieger (1910-1981) (GEMSTONE).
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 672 |
 |
Especially Rare Gold (Crystallized). PLEASE NOTE! The photograph appearing in the printed catalog is incorrect. The corrected image now appears above.
Dorlin, Maripasoula Commune, French Guiana, South America.
This is an exceptionally rare, crystallized gold specimen from an exceedingly scarce gold-producing locality. Gold is ranked by many discriminating specimen collectors based on the quality of its crystallization, with a range running from "nugget like" to "sharply crystallized." Value is then assigned proportionately between the bullion value (here, 137 grams) and the amount of crystallization. This specimen falls towards the more sharply crystallized end of the spectrum with its robust and blocky crystals. Some crystals, including the largest at 2 cm across, are clearly octahedral in form.
The present specimen was in the collection of the chief mine geologist at this locale for over 30 years before being sold to the noted French collector and investor, Gilles Emringer. It has never been offered for public sale and is thought by the previous owner to be the only large crystallized specimen recovered here in the mine's modern lifetime.
Measures 4.6 x 3.8 x 2.5 cm.
Weighs 137 grams.
Estimated Value $25,000 - 30,000.
Gilles Emringer Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 673 |
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Large and Stunning Cabinet Specimen of Beryl Var. Aquamarines on Huge Muscovite Books. Also with Albite. Govenador Valadares, a city in the state of Minas Gerais, Brasil.
This spectacular work of nature measures 18.8 by 35.5 by 19.5 cm.
The bluish-green Aquamarine crystal at center measures 8 x 8 cm with nearly 6 cm of depth. The side Aquamarine measures 5.5 cm and the Muscovite books are of equal or larger size.
This is a most impressive Aquamarine plate and a joy to behold.
Size inches: 7.4 x 14 x 7.7 in.
Comes with a custom made, labeled base.
Estimated Value $24,000 - 28,000.
Ex. Kevin Ward Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 674 |
 |
Gemmy Blue Crystals of Aquamarine on Original Muscovite. Chumar Bakhoor, Hunza Valley, Gilgit District, Northern Areas of Pakistan.
This is a most impressive and aesthetic Aquamarine plate. Viewing the plate closely, one is pleasantly surprised by its vibrancy, pristine surfaces and aesthetic arrangement. It’s a rare treat to come across a specimen with so many qualities in one package, including the natural, slightly bronzed Muscovite blades that add to the overall visual beauty. Plates of this quality are extremely difficult to find as most have disappeared into private collections years ago.
Measures 11.5 cm by 15 cm by 14 cm.
Estimated Value $24,000 - 28,000.
Ex Kevin Ward Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 675 |
 |
Dramatic Vivianite. From Morococalla, Oruro Department, Bolivia.
This evocative and other-worldly specimen has exceptional crystals. Specimens with exceptional crystals of this size have been elusive and difficult to find; that is, until their recent discovery in Bolivia. These local specimens are now considered the finest ever found and their dramatic color is considered unique by many.
Viviianite, usually found as deep blue to deep bluish green prismatic to flattened crystals, can be sensitive to excessive light and, as a result, may darken and turn more opaque. This specimen has been on display in a collector's cabinet for several decades.
Measures: 15.25 x 15.5 cm.
Size inches: 6 x 6 in.
Estimated Value $23,000 - 27,000.
The famous Rolf Wein (Stuttgart, Germany) collection. This specimen was acquired in 1988 and is one of the largest known pieces from the locality.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 676 |
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Rare Huge Crystals of Colored Fluorite Sitting Atop Thick Books of Muscovite. Nagar, Hunza Valley, Gilgit, Northern Areas, Pakistan
The octahedral (8 faces) Fluorite crystals are both bi-color in nature with a light rosy pink contrasting a delicate green. The faces are glassy with a slight texture and very translucent. Both Fluorites give off an internal color glow of pink and green and are in excellent condition. Fluorites of this size in this condition from Pakistan are exceedingly rare.
Measures 14.9 by 9.5 cm with 8.5 cm and 7.5 cm Fluorite crystals.
Estimated Value $22,000 - 24,000.
Ex. Edward David Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 677 |
 |
Natural Aussie Gold Nugget. PLEASE NOTE! The photograph appearing in the printed catalog is incorrect. The corrected image now appears above.
Kalgoorlie, Goldfields region, Western Australia, Australia
This beautiful, natural nugget of gold with brilliant and bright coloration characteristics is a high purity Aussie nugget and offers three-dimensional aesthetics as a specimen. It has small bits of included quartz crystals, as accents. However, nearly all the mass is pure gold. This is a fine display-quality and, for some, an investment-grade natural nugget.
Measures 6.8 x 4.3 x 3.3 cm.
Weight: 330 grams (10.6 troy ounces).
Estimated Value $22,000 - 25,000.
Matthew Webb Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Realized
$18,800 |
Lot 678 |
 |
Showy Beryl, var. Goshenite on Muscovite. From Mt. Xuebaoding, Pingwu County, Mianyang Prefecture
Sichuan Province, China.
Goshenite is the transparent, nearly colorless variety of beryl. Although beryl usually has elongated crystals, this variety occurs in thick tabular crystals. This piece abounds with a large number of translucent crystals, both large and small, that delight the eye. The crystals of this fine and exceptional quality specimen have traces of blue aquamarine crystals. The lustrous muscovite background make for an attractive specimen worthy of an collector's cabinet.
Measures: 20.5 x 19 cm.
Size inches: 8 x7.5 in.
:
Estimated Value $18,500 - 20,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 679 |
 |
Classic Azurite with Malachite. Copper Queen Mine of Bisbee, Cochise Co., Arizona
This large Azurite plate is an extremely nice specimen that offers a wonderful and vivid contrast in colors. The word "azurite" comes from the Persian word meaning blue. The blue tones of Azurite and the green hues of Malachite dramatically set off each other, as this piece demonstrates. While Azurite is a secondary copper mineral found in the oxidized zones of copper-bearing ore deposits, the Bisbee locality for this mineral is considered to be a 'classic.' And this piece is a true "Classic Brisbee."
Measures: 20.3 x 17.75 cm.
Size inches: 8 x 7 in.
Estimated Value $18,500 - 20,000.
O. E. Stratton Collection, a miner from the early days of prospecting in Arizona.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 680 |
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Remarkable Combination of Barite and Gypsum Crystals on Yellow Calcite. From the Elk Creek locality, Dalzell, Meade County, South Dakota.
The amber Barites are perfectly terminated, as are the transparent Gypsum crystals. They're also very gemmy, with the largest Barite being transparent. All sit atop a matrix of bright yellow Calcite crystals over matrix. Barite and Gypsum combos are very rare and plates of this size with both offer a rare opportunity.
This is an American classic whose color palette is not often seen.
Measures 7.5 by 15.3 by 12.5 cm Total Size.
Comes with a custom made, engraved base.
This specimen appeared in the acclaimed American Mineral Treasures Display in Tucson, 2008.
Estimated Value $17,000 - 20,000.
Ex. Korpi Mineral Collection.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 681 |
 |
Massive Topaz Crystal from Burma. Mogok Valley, Burma, Southern Asia
This interesting specimen, a large (6 x 10.5 x 6.5 cm) and heavy topaz crystal formed with a white feldspar matrix, is pristine with sharply defined edges and faces. It is well formed with a complex, multi-faced termination. The contrast between the large broad faces of the topaz and the highly-textured feldspar is a delight to the eye.
Extraordinary topaz specimens are found in Pantaw, in the Mogok Valley of Mandalay. These crystals from the mines in Mogok have excellent crystal clarity and high-class gem quality.
Measures 10 x 11 x 13 cm.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 17,000.
A Bill Larson, Pala International mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 682 |
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Perfect Gemmy Emerald Crystal. Muzo Mine, Boyaca Department, Columbia.
This exceptional miniature specimen possesses a classic hexagonal emerald form with a flat termination and faces that are both lustrous and pristine. The petite (2 cm long) well-colored crystal is artistically nestled and majestically sits atop black and white calcite matrix.
Among its many inherent ideals, this crystal also offers exceptionally aesthetic qualities with its pristine termination and gemmy clarity.
Colombia produces most of the world's emeralds. Emerald mines are located mainly in the Boyacá Department.
Measures 5 x 5 x 4.5 cm.
Estimated Value $15,000 - 17,000.
A Bill Larson, Pala International mineral.
View details and enlarged photo
| Realized
$12,000 |
Lot 683 |
 |
Gorgeous Pink Morganite Crystal on Lepidolite and Cleavelandite with Quartz. Pech, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan.
This striking specimen offers a beautiful 4.5 cm Morganite snuggled between crystal clusters of pink Lepidolite and Cleavelandite. The world famous song "La Vie En Rose" by the French chanteuse Edith Piaf is tanslated "Life in Pink" and seems like a very appropriate nickname.
The Morganite is gemmy to translucent with perfect textbook form and glassy crystal faces. There is no damage and the Morganite is complete on all sides. The color could best be described as a soft pastel pink with shades of orange. The Lepidolite clusters are rosy-pink and provide a beautiful contrast.
Measures 18 by 11 by 10.4 cm.
Comes with a custom made, labeled stand.
Estimated Value $14,000 - 17,000.
Ex Kevin Ward.
View details and enlarged photo
| Unsold |
Lot 684 |
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Remarkable Elbaite Pink Tourmalines with Quartz and Lepidolite. Grotta d'Oggi Quarry, San Piero in Campo, Elba Island, Italy.
This is a beautiful and quite rare specimen of Pink Tourmaline from Elba Island whose appellation provided the basis for naming this variety of tourmaline. In today's market, it is exceedingly difficult to find a specimen with large pink crystals which has not been restored or repaired, but this specimen meets both qualifications for perfection.
The vertical crystal on the right measures 3.5 cm in length and is perfectly terminated. The slanted Tourmaline on the left is crudely terminated against Cleavelandite and measures 3 cm in length. The Quartz crystals at top are also terminated and provide the perfect background.
Measures 9 x 7.5 x 7.5 cm with 3.5 cm and 3 cm Tourmalines.
Estimated Value $14,000 - 16,000.
Ex. Perry, Kevin Ward, Freilich Mineral Collections.
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| Unsold |
Lot 685 |
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Extraordinary Quartz with Fluorite on Dolomite. From Shangbao, Leiyang County, Hunan Province, China.
This specimen offers an aesthetic grouping of three distinct minerals with exceptional crystals forming a perfect assemblage of nature's masterful handy-work.
Dolomite was first described and found in 1791 by French mineralogist D. de Dolomieu. In recent years, however, China has uncovered specimens of extraordinary quality, and is now a major source of exceptional quality specimens.
Measures: 22.85 x 14 cm
Size inches: 9 x 5.5 in
:
Estimated Value $13,500 - 15,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 686 |
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Impressive Tourmaline, variety Elbaite. From Paprok, Nuristan, Kunar Province, Afghanistan
This massive crystal specimen is well terminated with a transparency and translucence that create delightful lustre, beautiful color and artistic quality. Despite its size, it is virtually damage free.
Tourmalines are highly prized for gemstones and its color palette, composed of various shades of green and red, is compelling.
Afghanistan and Pakistan in recent years have unearthed some extraordinary specimens of the highest quality. Due to the current military/political situations in these countries, the supply has dwindled.
Measures: 17.5 x 8.9 cm
Size inches: 7 x 3.5 in.
Estimated Value $13,000 - 15,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 687 |
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Classic Specimen of Azurite Over Malachite. Lavender Pit, Copper Queen Mine, Bisbee, Cochise County, Arizona.
This visually-stunning piece is an Azurite specimen from Bisbee sporting a distinctive look. The notable azurite specimens mined at Bisbee are possibly the most sought after azurites by American collectors.
The larger crystals are a joy to view along with the color of the botryoidal (resembling clusters of grapes Azurites with sparkling micro-crystals (drusy) over green Malachite. This specimen also has a lighter blue layer of botryoidal Azurite beneath the drusy surface. Of aesthetic interest is a small patch at the very top where the drusy growth never quite completed its coverage.
Despite the technicalities possessed by this dramatic piece, its form, shape and color combine to make a visually beautiful specimen that speaks to the inner spirit.
Measures 6.5 by 10.2 by 6.7 cm.
Estimated Value $12,000 - 14,000.
Ex. Robert Whitmore Collection.
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| Unsold |
Lot 688 |
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Exceptional and Vibrant Dioptase. From Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia - South West Africa.
This specimen is big and showy and makes a bold aesthetic statement. The fabulously rich green color and sparkle on this piece is most outstanding and artistically pleasurable. A few white highlight areas of exposed matrix on the upper back accent the green dioptase.
Dioptase is a rare copper silicate mineral and one of the most beautiful. The famous mines at Tsumeb are long closed and dioptase from the locality is hard to obtain. While dioptase occurs around the world in most copper deposits, the specimens from Tsumeb have always been considered by astute collectors as a prized addition with a visually pleasing presence.
Measures: 20.32 x 12.7 cm.
Size in inches: 8 x 5 in.
Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,000.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 689 |
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Classic California Neptunite. From Benitoite Gem Mine, San Benito County, California, USA.
A rare California classic of black prismatic crystals embedded in white natrolite. The crystals in this specimen are well formed and show multiple secondary faces.
Neptunite, discovered in the early 1900s, occurs rarely. Its most famous specimens come from the wonderful deposits at San Benito County in California. Now considered the finest examples of this mineral ever found, they are rare and difficult to find. The mines in San Benito County have been closed and the land reclaimed. These pieces, therefore, can only come to the market by acquisition of older collections.
Measures: 21.6 x 16.25 cm
Size inches: 8.5 x 6 in.
Estimated Value $11,000 - 12,500.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 690 |
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Superb Spray of Anhydrite. From: Naica Mun. de Saucillo, Chihuahua, Mexico
Interestingly, this large 3-D like piece appears to be shouting out - Look at me! Anhydrite,of this size, is usually found only in museum collections. This is a superb cluster of pearly, grey-blue anhydrite whose form and shape make for a showy artistic specimen.
Anhydrite, named from the Greek "anhydros" meaning "waterless," is a calcium sulphate and while found in numerous places around the world, the Naica mining district is a noted locality for excellent specimens of anhydrite. This is a superb, large grouping with no matrix.
Measures 20 x 25.4 cm.
Size inches: 10 x 8 in.
Estimated Value $9,000 - 9,500.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 691 |
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Aesthetic Ruby Crystal. Mogok, Burma, Southern Asia.
This piece is a delightfully terraced ruby cluster whose artistic stair-step effect pleasingly coalesces with strong red color and some minor white calcite accents.
Ruby from Burma is distinguished and known by all for its fiery red color and famous for its exceptional coloring. The color of ruby ranges from bright red to dark reddish-brown. The most preferred color is a deep blood red with a slightly bluish hue. Such ruby is known as "Burmese Ruby" or "Pigeon's Blood Ruby."
The valley of Mogok, located some 200 kilometers northeast of the city of Mandalay in Burma (now known as Myanmar), has been yielding the world's most beautiful ruby gems and crystals for more than a thousand years.
Weighs 467 ct.
Measures 4 x 4.5 x 3 cm.
This piece is attached (readily detachable) to an acrylic display base.
Estimated Value $7,000 - 8,000.
A Bill Larson, Pala International mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 692 |
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Exceptional Ruby Crystal. Mogok, Burma, Southern Asia.
This euhedral, that is, well formed ruby crystal, has glassy faces and pristine terminations. This piece is a complete floater as it is unattached from pocket wall/matrix; all faces are defined, and there are no attachment points. From an aesthetic perspective, this crystal's layered bottom-half provides a perch to the more glassy faces above, and the total combination of form and color evokes a pleasant spiritual quality.
Ruby from Burma is distinguished and known by all for its fiery red color and famous for its exceptional coloring. It is a red variety of the mineral corundum. The color of ruby ranges from bright red to dark reddish-brown. The most preferred color is a deep blood red with a slightly bluish hue. Such a ruby is known as "Burmese Ruby" or "Pigeon's Blood Ruby."
The valley of Mogok, located some 200 kilometers northeast of the city of Mandalay in Burma (now known as Myanmar), has been yielding the world's most beautiful ruby gems and crystals for more than a thousand years.
Weighs 670 ct.
Measures 4 x 6.5 x 4 cm.
This piece is attached (readily detachable) to an acrylic display base.
Estimated Value $7,000 - 8,500.
A Bill Larson, Pala International mineral.
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| Realized
$5,100 |
Lot 693 |
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Gorgeous Aquamarine & Schrol. Erongo Mountains, Namibia
This exquisite aquamarine specimen is from a new find in the Erongo mountains of Namibia. The piece combines a large horizontal crystal (8.5cm long) in the foreground, on which rests a dramatic cluster of contrasting black schorl. The shorl itself is accented with aquamarines of various sizes (ranging in length from 4 cm to 1.5 cm). The well-terminated aquamarine crystals mix with the black schorl and white feldspar to offer a collage of shapes, forms and colors that makes for a vivid aesthetic viewing encounter.
Measures 9 x 6 x 4.5 cm.
Comes with an acrylic display base.
Estimated Value $4,500 - 5,500.
A Bill Larson, Pala International mineral.
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| Unsold |
Lot 694 |
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Impressive Fluorite. From Riemvasmaak, Siyanda District, Northern Cape Province, South Africa
This specimen, with a lot of visual impact, is almost entirely translucent throughout.
Fluorite, a common mineral found around the world, is a very popular collector mineral because of its myriad of colors. The electric green color from this locality in Africa is a recent find and collectors around the world are eager to add an example to their collections.
Measures: 22.85 x 14 cm
Size inches: 9 x 5.5 in.
Estimated Value $3,750 - 4,500.
A Bruce/Leicht Mineral.
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| Unsold |
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