Azurite cast after Gypsum (rare) Ydren Coll.

Item Description

An outstanding and rare epimorph (type of pseudomorph) from this well-known Utah locale. Bright royal-blue azurite with just a bit of malachite replaces the gypsum and the original gypsum dissolves away, leaving a hollow cast surrounded by the new mineral. There is malachite on the outside and inside of the cast. The Apex Mine is known for this material, but it is very seldom available and only out of old collections. Older material from the 1950s or early 60s, as the John Ydren label indicates he bought the piece for $5.50 from well-known dealer Brad van Scriver in 1964. Valued at $750-900 today, as that is what the rare comparables which turn up time to time sell for.