Lot 657
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.
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