Large Baryte "wand" (old classic, from the 1800s)

Item Description

Barite from the famous and extinct iron mines at Frizington is a classic English species. This is an impressive and dramatic large multi-hued "wand". The sculptural, tapered crystal is very glassy, lustrous and is transparent to translucent. One striking striated entire face is rich coated and included with iron oxides. The back side is partially oxide tinted, has more fabulous striations, a striking stepped-growth "spine" and the very glassy base reveals the true color of the crystal, a greenish-gray. Yes, the termination is gently cleaved, there's a contact on one side, where another crystal once lay, but with only slight bruising, a broken crystal at the base and trivial scattered scuffing are noted. This remains an exceptionally large, highly representative multi-hued sculptural example of the species and noted locale. Certainly over 100 years old, but no proof. Valued at $1500-2000 for striking beauty, size, form and quality. It GLOWS, when back lit. From an East Coast collection.