Cuprite - early 1900s

Item Description

Sharp octahedrons of Cuprite course their way through the valleys within this gossan matrix, from the famous Bisbee mining district. The Cuprite crystals, which range up to 4 cm on edge, have fine metallic luster and even glow a soft cherry-red as they transmit light. This quality old-timer hails from an unknown Bisbee mine, but nonetheless is very rich and highly representative of the species and this world-class copper mining district. Originally acquired from A. Berger of Vienna probably around the turn of the 1900s. These pieces are part of a century-old Italian collection that was recently acquired.