Axinite-(Fe)

Item Description

A really attractive matrix specimen of Axinite-(Fe) from the locality at Khaplu in the high mountains of Pakistan. Matrix specimens are not terribly easy to find, especially with so many fine quality crystals like this piece. Please note that this specimen was erroneously labeled as coming from Afghanistan, but it's certainly from Pakistan. These specimens are from an "Alpine-type" "kleft" deposit, very similar to the better known "Alpine-type" Axinites from Russia, or true Alpine Axinites from Europe. Many fine, gemmy, sharp, lustrous, well-formed, tabular, "wedge"-shaped crystals of clove brown colored Axinite-(Fe) aesthetically sit atop of a mound of blocky Albite on matrix. The largest crystal measures 2.1 cm. Most of the crystals are in good shape, but there is a bit of damage in spots. If the piece was completely damage free, I would value it around $2500-$3000 retail, but it's lower because of the contacts.
This piece comes to us from the legendary Ron Romanella (February 28, 1932 - October 24, 2022), a well-known gem and mineral dealer from New York City. He studied mineralogy at Columbia School of Mines, and he was mentored by Dr. Frederick Pough of the American Museum of Natural History, and learned about the business side from well-known mineral dealers Hugh Ford and Maurice Hammoneau. Ron himself was a mentor to other successful East Coast mineral dealers such as Larry Conklin, Herb Obodda and even employed Dave Wilber for a time. He largely transitioned out of selling minerals as his business focused more on gems for the last few decades, and his sons Michael and Jerry have been running the family business in Scottsdale for many years now. With that said, Ron was one of the great powerhouse mineral dealers in the US for many years, offering fine quality specimens and gem crystals from classic and contemporary localities. Among his top achievements, is that Ron is credited with importing the first known crystals of Tanzanite into the US in the 1960s.