Gypsum "sand rose"

Item Description

Stunning large and RARE tapered two-sided disk of sand-included gypsum from an obscure locale in the Sahara Desert of Algeria. Both sides of the disk are dramatically accented by striking jackstraw rosettes of sand-included gypsum disks. These have been called "sand roses" or "desert roses", certainly appropriate names. The 'A' side is dramatic with the larger rosette. The lack of a a secondary sand coating on part of the 'B' side reveals the luster and translucence of the large disk, adding character. Complete all-around and nearly pristine. The striking 'A' side is pristine and you barely notice the few bruised rosette disks on the 'B' side. Ex Al Kidwell Collection and acquired in 1972. RARE, older, seldom available and outstanding material.