Manganite (circa 1880s) ex Obodda

Item Description

An impressive jackstraw plate of splendent, striated, jet-black manganite prisms. This historic, old-timer is NOT just a "black rock" by any means. The sculptural quality is dramatic and impressive. The striking, well terminated, large crystal at the top is 2.2 cm. These old pieces came out in about 1865-1890 (per the excellent 2010 Ilfeld article in The Mineralogical Record). This piece is solid, crystallized manganite. Some contacting/bruising is noted. Excellent crystals, good size, and high luster make this an excellent and affordable small cabinet. Ex A.K. Borland Collection, a prominent mid-20th Century English collector. Ex Herb Obodda dealer stock. Valued by Herb at $1200, five or more years ago. Classic material.