Manganotantalite (ex. Obodda)

Item Description

This classic Afghanistani specimen displays a striking, metallic and lustrous crystal of manganotantalite nestled in a cluster of crystallized cleavelandite matrix, from a place which seldom produces any matrix specimens at all of this rare species. It is a sharp crystal, 3.2 cm tall, with a perfect termination. This material is simply normally not aesthetic, and in combination on such nice white matrix, making it a rare find. Herb Obodda opened up Afghanistan to mineral specimen exports and brought this out himself, keeping it in his collection for decades. It comes with his personal collection label and was in his famed suite of "aesthetic small cabinet specimens" he often displayed at shows, to showcase the amazing variety of Afghani and Pakistani minerals of quality. The piece is perfectly balanced, and a fine fit for any sophisticated collection of more common species, because it fits nicely with more fancy gem species on a shelf. Valued $1800-2000