Ferberite with "Japan"-Twin Quartz

Item Description

This is an attracitve and rarely seen large cabinet display specimen of Ferberite from Bolivia. 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. The piece features a hundreds of fine quality quality, sharp, lustrous, jet-black crystals of Ferberite measuring up to 2.6 cm, but many of the crystals are intergrown in composite groups and semi-"rosette"-shaped groups, so it's hard to discern individual crystals. Aditionally, the Ferberites are associated with a VERY rarely seen, 2.6 cm "Japan"-Law twin of Quartz on the back left edge. The Quartz is sharp and well-formed, but partialy covered by the Ferberites. The matrix is essentially massive grey Arsenopyrite, but it's sturdy and holds the weight of the Ferberites well. Speaking of weight, this piece weighs 3,885 grams (just over 8.5 pounds), so PLEASE keep this in mind when bidding as there will be additional shipping charges. Overall, the specimen is in superb shape especially compared to the vast majority of specimens which are badly broken. These Bolivian Ferberites are underrated and stand up well against any other Ferberites from China or Panasqueira. This piece was from a find in 1999 at Tasna, and I don't think I've seen anything like it since. Valued at $3,500 retail.