Calcite (''nail head'' crystals with iron oxide inclusions) (ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection)

Item Description

Here we have a wonderful, three-dimensional display specimen of the now classic Calcites from Tieshan Mine (Daye Mine). This aesthetic large cabinet sized piece is loaded with very sharp, translucent Calcite scalenohedra which are stacked into pagoda-esque crystal groups with attractive "nail head"-shaped caps which are selectively included with iron oxide to create a gorgeous rich red color on one side. The large Calcite group measures approximately 6.3 cm. There is very little damage, and a few spots near the base of the specimen might appear to be broken, but upon close inspection you can see that they are re-crystallized ("re-healed") and not damaged. One of the more impressive big showy examples of these now classic Calcites. These specimens are certainly dwindling on the market now, and if you collect Calcites or Chinese minerals, or if you just want to get your hands on a very good representation of these wonderful Calcites, don't miss out on this one. Priced in the inventory at $4,000. Ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection. Along with amassing one of the finest private mineral collections in the world, Steve is a renowned mathematician. His accomplishments include being awarded the Fields Medal in 1966 along with being the awarded the Wolf Prize in mathematics in 2007. You can read Steve's bio on the Mineralogical Record website ( https://mineralogicalrecord.com/biographies_labels/smalestephen/ ) or on Wikipedia.