Ludlockite (very rare) (ex Rich Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

A classic specimen of this well known very rare lead iron arsenite species from the type locality. The good sized piece (for the species) features dozens of micro "hair"-like, intergrown, strong bronze-orange color, crystals of Ludlockite forming an attractive specimen. The piece almost looks like it's braided, and to me somewhat resembles reticulated "Sagenite" Rutile I've seen from the Alps. The species was first discovered as part of a single find at the Tsumeb mine in 1970, and the unique appearance makes it one of the most distinctive and well known rare minerals in the world. The species was named after mineral dealers Frederick (Rick) Ludlow Smith and Charles (Charlie) Locke Key: Ludlow + Locke = Ludlockite. Specimens from Tsumeb are the most desirable for collectors, and very few are seen on the market today. From the collection of Rich Kosnar, who personally acquired it from Charlie Key.