large Turquoise (circa 1960s)

Item Description

Striking, pretty turquoise-blue, cauliflower-head shaped turquoise aggregates dramatically and richly fill a sculptural large vug against contrasting brown matrix on this impressive large old specimen from Arkansas. Thicker turquoise rinds and sheets are visible on other sides of the matrix. The obscure Mona Lisa phosphate mine was intermittently active from 1950 to 1981 (MINDAT). This natural turquoise is from the only gem quality turquoise mine in the eastern portion of the US! The material was collected by the mine owner in the 1960s and stashed in his garage. Such specimens are rare, as most are crushed for powder or carved for cabochons. 435 grams or nearly a pound mass. Obtained from mine owner James Zigras out of the private stash of the predecessor mine owner. A very showy, large, rare and excellent turquoise from the locale. Ex James Zigras, well-known Arkansas mine owner and collector.