Barite circa late 1800s

Item Description

Emplaced on pink dolomite, are a few well-crystallized, glassy, translucent to transparent barite crystals to 5.5 cm in length. The cluster of two crystals atop is really interesting and unusual, much like a butterfly wing in shape. The cluster is freestanding and complete - 3-dimensional/, 360-degrees around. Primarily yellow in color, disseminated hematite inclusions have added an attractive brownish-red tinge to some of the crystal edges that add a bit of contrast and depth. As the specimen is properly displayed, the termination of the least and lowest-height forward-right facing crystal is broken at the tip. However, taken in context with the size and age and 3-dimensionality of the specimen, the overall piece is magnificent. I find it pretty remarkable to have survived in such overall good condition from the 1800s when it was likely mined. Specimens of this calibre do not turn up often enough, and only from old colletions or museums. Even then, they usually have so much damage to them at this size range, that few are so displayable. Also, lastly, the yellow color here is very much more uncommon for crystals of this habit than are the class shades of blue to gray. This is a special, rare specimen, I value highly at $4000-5000. Comes with custom base.