Ferberite (good twin)

Item Description

Here is a nice twinned crystal of Ferberite. This species was sometimes previously referred to as "Wolframite", which was supposed to be an intermediary species between Ferberite and Hubnerite, but has since been discredited. This piece features the classic, "butterfly" twinning of Ferberite along the a (100) face. A good quailty, sharp, lustrous, jet-black twinned crystal. The twin has a great thick blocky form, and overall is a good display specimen of this rarely seen material, despite a few nicks here and there. The most important aspect of the piece is the fact that BOTH the TOP and BOTTOM are intact and NOT CLEAVED, which is rare in my experience with this material. Twinned crystals from Bolivia have becoming increasingly difficult to obtain from Bolivia, especially in this size. These are definitely the most highly sought after crystal habit from this locality This piece one of the better formed large Ferberite twins that I offered in the auctions in months. The piece was valued in the gallery at $1400.