Rhodochrosite (early 1900s)

Item Description

From an old Japanese collection, such specimens as this are likely from the early 1900s, and are generally only seen in museums or the oldest collections. This "gummi worm" style of linked rounded growths of rhodochrosite is known from only a few places in the world (Argentina and Mexico, rarely), and is particularly uncommon for Japanese locations. This may in fact be the best we know of, of this style of crystallization of a freestanding rhodochrosite cluster, from this old mine. It is complete on both sides, although the front is nicer and more lustrous. According to MINDAT: First worked in the late 17th century for silver ore, then during the 18th century for copper. In the 19th century it produced lead, zinc and cadmium, until it was closed in 1979. Reworked on a small scale in the 1980s for its banded rhodochrosite as lapidary material...so you can imagine, most such richly formed material was cut long ago. Specimens like this were only saved by a handful of collectors at the time. A superb Japanese rhodo, and fairly unique from any locality, this was valued over $10,000 at time of purchase from an old collection. We have simply never seen a comparable for sale.

This specimen is part of the 2024 Dallas Mineral Collecting Symposium benefit auction, donated by The Arkenstone, with proceeds benefiting Mineralogical Record, Rocks & Minerals, Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, and mindat.org. Thanks to all of our participants!

Billing for this auction will occur on Monday, August 19th, for payment using PayPal or a credit card. Shipping will be billed at cost.