Hausmannite (excellent crystals) (1980s)

Item Description

A fantastic small cabinet display specimen of these world-class Hausmannites, featuring a sculptural groups of very sharp, jet-black, lustrous, pyramidal tetragonal Hausmannite crystals which have grown into striking pagoda-like clusters. The wonderful luster of the Hausmannite crystals allows them to sparkle even in medium lighting, and the desirable crystal form makes for an excellent specimen by any standard. Certainly the most significant aspect of the piece is the SIZE of the crystals, which measure up to 2.1 cm on edge, very good sized for the species. The piece actually sits on its own without the aid of a base or clay, but it's not totally stable, so I would recommend a custom base to help with the presentation. Hausmannite may not get the attention is deserves, as this fairly familiar manganese oxide has been known for 200+ years, but it's important to stress that the world’s finest examples of this species come from the Kalahari Manganese Field. This specimen would make an outstanding addition to any collection. The only damage I can see is on the edges where it was separated the pocket wall, or from additional Hausmannite crystals.
Valued $4,500.
Ex Charlie Key collection. Charlie is arguably the most successful dealer of the second half of the 20th century, along with being the namesake for TWO mineral species (Keyite and Ludlockite).