important Wulfenite on matrix (circa 1970s)

Item Description

Here is one of the more important, if subtle, specimens in the larger display collection of Tsumeb material from the Pohl collection, long displayed in her home for decades. For color and diversity, I cannot imagine any other collection of TSUMEB reaching this size and breadth (over 10,000 pieces, including thumbnails!); and while much of it was packed away like treasures for the future in boxes, some pieces were out on full display in the home. This is from the major display suite of important species of the mine, also selected for color and display quality - a truly significant wulfenite specimen. While this famous mine is not known for wulfenite for a good reason - most of it is somewhat ugly or dull or off colored - it has produced some few pockets. This "fire orange" style was thought to have come out in the 1970s but it could be from the 1960s even (we really are not sure) and today this style of lustrous, brilliant, vibrant orange wulfenite is one of the most desirable styles of wulfenite from ANY WORLDWIDE LOCATION. It was acquired by Dr. Pohl in the midpoint of her collection, by the early 1980s, and has remained there with her treasured suite of Tsumeb! Largest crystal is 2.3 cm, only slightly under an inch! When backlit, these glow with a rich butterscotch color. Perhaps, the photos speak for themselves - but it is really better in person! Dr. Pohl purchased this small cabinet specimen and a fine miniature from the same pocket, #58727, also at auction here today. She had first choice of so many minerals from this location, throughout the 60s and 70s into the 1980s, from her European dealer sources and from others in Africa. This is one of the cherry picked favorites in the extensive miniatures collection. A stunning piece, shocking for quality from a mine you do not expect amazing wulfenites...and valued $10,000 or more if on the open retail market at a show.