Azurite ex. Lockhart Coll.

Item Description

A beautiful crystal spray of azurite, featuring a bowtie-like cluster with 7 cm-long, doubly-terminated crystals that literally look as if it is about to leap off the matrix. The ends project out in 3 dimensions and overhang the matrix to make them more dramatic. This well trimmed specimen, for a small cab, is in fact one of the more dramatic pieces in this size and price range, that I think you could get. The crystals are robust, 3-dimensional, and super-lustrous (to the point where they are actually reflective). The tips of all major crystals are intact and broad, and like the bodies are super- lustrous. This is a very rare habit for azurite, even from productive Tsumeb. Most azurite is chisel shaped or slender, and these elongated but broadly terminated crystals would be considered extremely rare and desirable. The bowtie cluster in the middle is bisected by a slight outgrowthcoming towards the viewer, an that thin plate has some contacting, in front where it was attached to matrix. The cluster flares out to either side of this central "rim" in 3 dimensions, so it does not just lay flat. The piece is exceptionally well trimmed to stand upright on its own, though it also includes a custom lucite base we made for it several years ago. From the collection of Brent Lockhart, and purchased in 2004 from a Namibian collector. Valued at $5000.