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Cristobalite in Obsidian (Jaime Bird Coll.)
- Obsidian Ridge, Little Lake, Inyo Co., California
- Small Cabinet, 6.1 x 5.9 x 4.3 cm
- Start Time: 02/02/2013 6:45:00 pm (CST)
- End Time: 02/14/2013 6:30:00 pm (CST)
- Auction Closed
Item Description
A visual and sculptural specimen of an "eye" of high-temperature cristobalite nicely set in highly lustrous, razor-sharp, jet-black obsidian from an obscure California locale - Obsidian Ridge, Inyo County. The large "eye" is 2.6 cm. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cools too quickly, to crystallize. Thus, it is unusual to see minerals attached. The "eye" or sphere of high temperature cristobalite (SiO2) is actually the result of devitrification, or loss of silica from the obsidian. Certainly, a most unusual and uncommon specimen! Very rare, older material from this uncommon locale, dating to the 1950s or 60s. Ex Jaime Bird Collection.