Franklinite on Zincite (unusual form) Robertson Coll.

Item Description

A 4.8 x 4.5 cm, lustrous, dark gray franklinite octahedron is dramatically set on the sculptural laminated brick-red zincite matrix with embedded franklinite sections on this surreal old-timer from Franklin. The canyon-like zincite matrix looks like is was carved by water or wind resembling some of the canyons in the National Parks in the US West, although probably it was sculpted by sandblasting by a collector who desired the look to it. The striking octo has been reattached to the zincite and is complete on three sides. We assume it is in its original location, and clearly it is a very old repair and specimen. A bruised tip and out-of-sight dinged back are noted, but are certainly minimal detractions to this exceptional sculptural old-timer from the Kay Robertson Collection: # 8950 and acquired from Ron Bentley at Tucson in February, 1980. Kay is a prominent California collector, who specialized in European classics (see the article in the March-April, 2007 Mineralogical Record). A most impresssive and artistic franklinite and zincite combination from Franklin. Hard to value, but a FUN specimen to own!