Cuprite on Copper

Item Description

A classic specimen of the fine quality specimens from the Rubtsovsk Mine in Russia. These pieces have all but dried up on the market in recent years, and this particular specimen is a fine example that we've held back in our inventory in case no more were found. Typically the specimens from this locality will prominently feature either Copper or Cuprite, but the combination of the two is not that easy to find, especially in such an aesthetic specimen like this. Many sharp, well-formed, deep reddish colored, metallic octahedral crystals of Cuprite measuring up to 1.4 cm on edge are elegantly intermixed with a flowing group of crystallized Copper that shows a combination of mostly dodecahedral and tetrahexahedral habit, but there are some small octahedral faces, and what actually appear to be cubes on there as well. A bit of secondary oxidation has created a light blue-green coating of what is most likely Chrysocolla in a few areas for a nice touch. The piece is crystallized on all sides, and I would say it's nearly a complete "floater", though I can see one small point of attachment. The superb three-dimensional nature along with the excellent crystallization make it a highly displayable example of this classic material. No real damage that I can see, but there are a few areas of incomplete / interrupted growth. Hard to photograph, better in person and a really fine specimen of these contemporary classics! Priced in our inventory at $3,500.