Dolomite (large twinned crystals)

Item Description

Here fantastic, very good sized specimen of the classic Dolomite twins from the famous Azcárate Quarry in Spain. Dolomite might be a fairly common carbonate, but these particular piece are some of the fine quality, and most iconic Dolomite crystals in the world with their signature silvery color, razor-sharp rhombic form and gorgeous penetration twins. This full-sized cabinet specimen features a notably large beautiful predominant rhomb with smooth, slightly striated, lustrous faces which is twinned by smaller Dolomites of equal quality underneath, along with a second twinned group aesthetically flaring off the left side. The largest individual crystal measures 8.6 cm on edge, which is very good sized for the locality. The crystals are translucent, yet show some attractive little metallic inclusions of what appears to be Marcasite/Pyrite. The piece is in good shape, but not undamaged, as the periphery is a bit rough where it detached from the pocket wall. Still an excellent, big, showy piece of this classic material. Valued at $3,000.
From the collection of Kurt Hefendehl (#17 S), a well-known German collector all over Europe with worldwide contacts to dealers and collectors. He started collecting seriously at the age of 14 and his great and varied worldwide collection reached over 6000 pieces. He was very active mineralogically until shortly before his passing in 2020 at the age of 82. Considering his collection had a large number of pieces, it still had an unusually high standard of quality from most worldwide localities. He particularly specialized in all classics as well as minerals of the Black Forest, where he spent much time collecting. His Black Forest and German subcollections went to his good friend Wolfgang Wendel. We at The Arkenstone have the privilege of offering the remainder of this great worldwide collection over the next two to three years through our various platforms.