Ilvaite on Quartz

Item Description

Dalnegorsk (now closed) has produced a plethora of fabulous specimens representing a variety of mineral species, but one of the most prominent is Ilvaite. These Ilvaites, from the late 1980s/early 1990s finds, are considered to be the best of species in terms of shape and luster, in this size range (China gave us bigger and more expensive ones, but these are still more aesthetic and lustrous, generally). The main Ilvaite is 4.8 cm tall, and the prismatic crystal rises majestically above the Quartz/Ilvaite matrix. Its smaller sister crystal, TWINNED, stands at 1.8 cm tall. The luster is so superb, and the form of the crystal so fine, that it appears like a shining black beacon, even better than the pictures can portray. Sometimes simple things of quality and beauty capture the imagination, and seeing it in person would allow you to truly appreciate the quality of this small cabinet piece. Old 1990s Larry Conklin label, priced at $750. ex George Elling Collection.