Manganite (superb, old classic - circa 1880s)

Item Description

Ilfeld manganites are renowned as the best of the species. This a most impresssive large old-time two-sided piece, circa the 1880s. Striking clusters of intergrown, splendent, parallel-growth, jet-black manganite crystals fill an elongated vug on massive manganite matrix and form a most aesthetic piece. The crystals on this dramatic piece reach 2.6 cm. The jackstraw intergrowth of the crystals is notable. Yes, both sides are contacted, but are certainly only a modest detraction in context of the sheer size and quantity here. These old pieces came out in about 1865-1890. See the excellent Mineralogical Record article in 2010 Vol. 41, No. 6. Ex D.R. Kennedy Collection. Fairly valued at $2000-2500 in Euros or USD, for size and quality, I would think.