Ludlamite on Pyrite with Greenockite (?)

Huanuni mine, Dalence Province, Oruro Department, Bolivia
Cabinet, 11.6 x 7.6 x 3.2 cm
Start Time: 06/07/2012 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 06/14/2012 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

This is a good specimen of this remarkably rare iron phosphate consisting of wonderful, sharp, lustrous, translucent, beautiful green, layered / "fan-shaped" crystal groups of Ludlamite with associated Siderite and Limonite on cubic Pyrite matrix. Additionally, there are some micro crystals on the piece which I cannot completely identify including some small deep red crystals that I believe to be Greenockite (very similar to those from the Siglo XX mine), and a group of metallic bladed crystals forming a sphercial aggregate - possibly something as simple as Pyrite, or perhaps a much rarer mineral, e.g., Plagionite. The largest Ludlamite crystal group measures 1.5 cm long. There are truly about 5 localities in the world the produce fine crystallized Ludlamite specimens (i.e., Cornwall, Santa Eulalia, Trepca, Blackbird Mine in Idaho), and ALL of them, except for Huanuni and now defunct. PLEASE NOTE: There have been no more of these specimens found in virtually 10 years from this locality, and it is a possibility there will never be any more, so don't miss out on a very good quality piece from a classic Bolivian locality. Valued at $900.

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