Rammelsbergite (rare)

Item Description

This rare nickel arsenide was originally named in 1800s after the famous German chemist and mineralogist, Karl F. Rammelsberg (1812-1899). Pieces from Zalesi are very rare and I don't know if I've ever seen one in person outside of this piece. The piece features somewhat striated groups of grey Rammelsbergite on host rock matrix. I'm told that this somewhat herringbone esque appearance (similar to crystals of sal ammoniac in my mind) are actually pseudomorphs after preexisting native Silver. Whether or not this is true, I can't say for certain, but they're actually very beautiful up close, especially under the microscope. These specimens are few and far between on the market, and are sought after by rarities collectors.