Cassiterite (Soregaroli Coll.)

Item Description

Bolivia has probably produced more tin than any other country in the world. The great tin mines at Viloco (sometimes called Araca) have produced some of the most magnificent cassiterite specimens extant. This particular specimen consists of fine, sharp, highly lustrous, translucent, cyclic twinned crystals ranging from dark brown to a "straw" color. Some of the crystals GLOW with gemminess, when backlit. Keep in mind that despite all of the thousands of tons of tin ore that are mined in Bolivia each year, Viloco is the only mine to produce gem quality crystals that are large enough and fine enough to facet stones. This piece is in great shape overall, and the fact that it shows color is a great bonus. A bit of gentle bruising and periphery wear are noted, which is certainly only a modest detraction. This classic material from Viloco is simply not seen for sale in today's market. This is a very attractive piece, mostly because of the high luster and gemminess of the cassiterites. It shows very well from numerous angles. Ex Art Soregaroli Collection.