Quartz ps. Anhydrite -  old USA classic!

Item Description

This is one of the best examples of these old USA classics in its size, that we have seen - a Pseudomorph on steroids is one way to introduce this outstanding, complex cast from Ouray, Colorado. On first glance, the thousands of 1-2 mm, gemmy, terminated Quartz crystals simply jump out at you. Look a little closer, and the Quartz crystals lining the cast tell you more of the history. First, the Quartz replaced the Anhydrite blades on the outside, then the remaining Anhydrite dissolved away; and finally, a second generation of sparkly and sugary Quartz crystals coated everything, including the insides of the cast. This sparkles in the light. This large, sparkly, and imposing cabinet-sized pseudo is aesthetic and as fine as I have seen from this area. It looks great both on its side, and vertical. When such things come out of the old classic USA collections, they are often valued in the $2000-2500 range in this quality, although I think this particular piece has a special aesthetic and really stands out from the crowd. Most of these were collected in the 1980's, or before. 

NOTE ADDED IN CORRECTION ON MARCH 13: FYI, these “Barite” pseudomorphs have all be proven to be replacements after Anhydrite.  The old labels all say Barite, easy mistake.