Gemmy Calcite xls (2009 find)

Item Description

An outstanding 360-degree small cabinet calcite plate from a limited 2009 find at this less well-known Chinese open pit Fe-Cu mine. Striking, beautiful, gemmy golden-yellow to honey-yellow complex calcite rhombs, to 3.8 cm, are aesthetically clustered on the laminated thin shale matrix plate. The crystals are essentially water-clear behind the bright silky lustre faces. The color variations are due to iron oxide content. The interior is nearly pristine, with only a trivial bit of edge wear. Contacting and periphery at the base is certainly only a modest detraction. These caused quite a stir at the 2009 Munich Show and the 2010 Tucson Show, with none since. The crystals have a beautiful golden glow, when back lit. An exceptional 360-degree piece from the find. Valued at $1000-1250.