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Bixbyite (rare XL habit) on Manganite
- Nchwaning Mines, Kalahari fields, N. Cape Prov, South Africa
- Miniature, 4.3 x 3.0 x 2.4 cm
- Start Time: 08/14/2011 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
- End Time: 08/30/2011 6:48:12 pm (CDT)
- Auction Closed
Item Description
A remarkable species piece, these rare specimens apparently came out of the famous Nchwaning Mine in the 1980s, and they are few and far between. The luster on the pyramidal terminations of these oddly shaped bixbyites is superb, and the high luster is shocking. For black on black on black, the sparkly aesthetics are really quite good. Charlie Key collection, and valued $750-1000 by him for rarity and quality for this species. Bixbyite is a rarity for the locale, and this piece is just off the charts for quality. Larger crystals are known, but few with such brilliance.