large Native Copper

Item Description

Impressive, sculptural and pristine large floater mass of copper crystals from the well-known skarn-type copper and gold mine - the Mount Elliott Mine. The striking arborescent specimen has a coral- or sponge-like appearance. The individual crystals are well-rounded and appear to be spinel-twins and other crystal forms. The piece resembles an exotic, fantasy-like, four-legged animal in one view with a frilled head and neck and curled tail. Ore production began in 1909 and the mine closed in the mid-2000s. It produced some of Australia's finest native copper specimens. Mass is 669 grams or 1.5 pounds. This rich large specimen has been cleaned to bring out the beautiful, bright copper patina. Formerly in the Erik Rose Collection. Ex Dr. Barratt Phillips Collection. A very fine, rich and expressive large native copper with surreal biomorphic form from the locale, with even the mine level known.