Important large Manganite & Baryte (old classic circa 1880)

Item Description

Circa the late 1800s, and still to this day, these were known as the best of species for manganite. A most impressive, large and rich old-time manganite and baryte specimen from the famous mines at Ilfeld. Striking clusters of intergrown, splendent, parallel-growth, jet-black manganite crystals are bifurcated by the starkly contrasting large, snow-white baryte blades and form most aesthetic piece. The crystals on this dramatic piece reach 2.9 cm. It is actually a major museum-sized and impactful display piece. The jackstraw intergrowth of the crystals is remarkable. Yes, both sides are contacted, but the front display is very impressive! A couple of broken crystals are noted within the large spray, but are certainly only a modest detraction in context of the sheer size and quantity here. The back has been sawed to enhance the display and remove excess mass, as well. This large display specimen is an important large example of the combination species and famous locale, and almost impossible to find in a price range below several $10,000 increments. These old pieces came out in about 1865-1890. See the excellent Mineralogical Record article in 2010 Vol. 41, No. 6. Comes with an old school label dating to the late 1800s or early 1900s. Fairly valued at $4000-5000 for size and quality, I would think.