Bournonite cogwheel twins on Quartz (excellent old classic)

Item Description

Old-time Herodsfoot bournonites are a worldwide classic and are highly desired. They were recovered from the late 1850s to early 1880s. This outstanding specimen features an aesthetic cluster of lustrous, gunmetal-gray, bournonite cogwheels beautifully placed on a bed of glassy, textbook, dipyramidal quartz crystals. The bournonites have a really striking luster and iridescence as you move it in light - a natural, ancient patina. The cogwheels reach 2.5 cm. The crystals are in great shape, overall, with just part of one cogwheel bruised on the periphery - every other crystal is PRISTINE! Specimens of this combination and quality are often on the market at high prices, when they turn up at all - which is rarely. They are considered one of the premier sophisticated classics of Old English minerals and rank very high worldwide in old specimen desirability. An extensive and excellent Herodsfoot article in a recent Mineralogical Record issue explores this famous locale. The old labels on the back reflect the age. The original price looks to be 2.5 pence. Valued at $2500 and worth it. A real "spiker " for this auction.