Hematite with iridescence (1800s classic)

Item Description

SUPERB cluster of stacked, 'poker chip' crystals of Hematite, from the famous Elba Island locality known for hundreds of years, but with an amazing iridescence due to ancient patina, that you almost never see. Thankfully it has not been cleaned with acids to remove it! These Hematites range up to 2.5 cm across, and the metallic luster is fabulous. It varies from silver and mirror-like (think of the great Hematites from Wessels) to many of the faces having a multi-colored iridescence. For a miniature, it has a significant amount of visual impact, and only tiny damage. It is a stunnign display piece. Elba is renowned for its wide variety of great minerals, but an aesthetic, top-flight specimen such as this Hematite more than holds its own representing Elba. Much better in person, even. These pieces are part of a century-old Italian collection that was recently acquired. It is gorgeous, though, to modern standards as well as a classic. Valued $1500-1800