Phenakite (rare multi-crystal matrix specimen)

Item Description

The beautiful, high-quality and classic Phenakites from the São Miguel de Piracicaba locality in Brazil are among the finest examples of the species in the world. The vast majority of these specimens are either single crystals, or solitary twinned groups, with no matrix. THIS piece however is an incredibly rare MATRIX specimen features dozens of sharp, lustrous, gemmy, well-formed trigonal crystals! The fact that there are so many crystals on the piece makes it one of, if not the richest Phenakite specimen I can remember seeing from the locality. The vast majority of the crystals are in fine condition, with no damage, and their intricate, smooth, well-formed faces look beautiful up close. The largest crystal measures 1.5 cm, so they're not small and most are quite gemmy to boot! If you're a fan of pegmatite minerals, beryllium minerals, Brazilian minerals or worldwide Phenakites, this is something special and rare, the likes of which you almost certainly cannot find anywhere else on the market. Valued $5,000 for the wealth of crystals, impressive overall size of the piece and the fact they're on matrix.
From the collection of Kurt Hefendehl (#56 B), a well-known German collector all over Europe with worldwide contacts to dealers and collectors. He started collecting seriously at the age of 14 and his great and varied worldwide collection reached over 6000 pieces. He was very active mineralogically until shortly before his passing in 2020 at the age of 82. Considering his collection had a large number of pieces, it still had an unusually high standard of quality from most worldwide localities. He particularly specialized in all classics as well as minerals of the Black Forest, where he spent much time collecting. His Black Forest and German subcollections went to his good friend Wolfgang Wendel. We at The Arkenstone have the privilege of offering the remainder of this great worldwide collection through our various platforms.