Kermesite (classic material)

Item Description

This historic Antimony mine in Slovakia has produced some of the most well known and classic Kermesite specimens in history. The species gets its name from the word "kermes", deriving from the Persian qurmizq, for "crimson", as these crystals are actually an intense red/crimson color under strong lighting. Even though the crystals may look metallic in reflected light, this is one of the few sulfides that actually shows color when backlit! This specimen hosts beautiful crystallized "sprays" of thin, prismatic, sharp, lustrous, metallic "needles" on matrix. The largest individual needle measures 1.1 cm. There are a few smaller secondary crystal groups on the piece as well, and for the size and quality, it is one of the better specimens of this well known material that I have handled. Enjoy.