Hausmannite ps. After Manganite (1880s)

Item Description

A very showy, old-time and quite rare pseudomorph specimen from the famous Ilfeld area of the Harz Mountains. This very sculptural specimen, it looks like a Chinese junk ship with no masts, has a large vug filled with lustrous, jet-black hausmannite pseudomorphs after manganite crystals in a matrix of massive hausmannite (the hausmannite had replaced the former manganite crystals as well, according to the Collectors Edge label with it, where it was analysed in 2007). The pseudos reach 1.2 cm. The angled "prow" is beautifully highlighted by bladed, white barite. These old pieces came out in about 1886-1888 (per Bancroft's book Gem & Crystal Treasures). Valued at $1500-2000 for quality and richness. The piece displays very well without any props. Perhaps because of the replacement, the luster here is amazing, super-sparkling, and very showy in a case.