Cuprian Aragonite and Calcite ex Jack Halpern Collection

Item Description

Considered a classic among European Aragonites, this ice-blue Aragonite is from the ancient and great mines of Lavrion (Laurium, and other related spellings). The blue color is imparted by the inclusion of copper minerals (we believe in this case, Aurichalcite), and interestingly, this cabinet specimen is both layered and crystalline at the same time as a combination of fibrous aragonite and sharp calcite. The actual sharp crystals (calcite) reach up to 6 mm, and they have a sharp yet frosted appearance like ice cream. Uncommon for its blue color, and the shape as well, the overall aesthetics are quite different! It is likely an oldtimer, but there is no previous history or label. There are numerous references to Jack and his collection in print, but perhaps a good tour of the collection and its history will help give perspective on just how good, and important, this collection is: https://www.irocks.com/the-jac...