Rhodochrosite on Manganite (1970s rare style)

Item Description

A classic Rhodochrosite from the Hotazel Mine in the famous Kalahari Manganese Field: this particular style was only found for a brief time in the mid 1970s and truly stands out as some of the most distinctive and eye-catching material from any South African locality. The piece hosts several hemispherical Rhodochrosites with a notably silky exterior luster, and a fiery red color, especially when backlit. The combination of the smooth flowing forms along with the gorgeous red makes this not only attractive but quite desirable for the species and the locality. Underneath the red Rhodochrosite is an earlier generation of soft pink banded Rhodochrosite that embellishes the black Manganite matrix. The red, pink and black makes for a contrasting display of color and a stunning specimen. Minor contacting around the periphery and a trace of bruising. Hotazel is known for producing many habits of Rhodochrosite (scalenohedra, rhombs, "balls", "wheat sheaf", etc.) and colors (blood red, brownish, baby pink, etc.); however, pieces with this particular habit and color are extremely rare. This piece is from the worldwide Rhodochrosite collection of Dr. William S. Logan (Specimen #X24-5) and comes with his labels . Valued $3000-5000