Mimetite (var. Campylite) with Barite - superb, old classic

Item Description

The Drygill Mine once produced the world's finest mimetite crystals of this habit, thought to be a different species in fact. This is a superb example of this classic rounded mimetite varietal, once known by the local name Campylite through the mid-1800s. This material, which typically has an orangey to brick red color, is one of the most classic lead species found in the north of England. This particular piece is notable for its juicy high luster, its rich color which is more vibrantly red in hue than usual, small association with rare barite, for accent and the fact, that this is a particularly rich, 3.0 cm thick, vuggy vein of mimetite. It has a few very minor dings or rubs, but given its probable age, the size, and the overall display quality there is nothing I feel detracts overmuch. This is, in fact, one of the showier examples I have seen recently for sale. Again, the color and luster really make it stand out from most others of this sort, when seen in person. From the collection of the late Ernie Schlichter, and valued at $2000. I have seen frankly lesser specimens with the major British dealers at Munich for similar if not more money, when the exchange rate to the pound is taken into account. This is a piece that leaps out for color and form, and is quite the unusual and rare mimetite combination specimen.