Rhodochrosite on Manganite

Item Description

Beautifully gemmy and lustrous, bright cherry-red clusters of rhodochrosite scalenohedrons strikingly fill the center of the large massive manganite ore matrix. These clusters are mostly in good shape, with only modest bruising, and that mostly on the edges of the plate. the periphery wear is only a minimal detraction given the size and showiness of the piece, at some reasonable price. Few rhodos from anywhere have this amazing color intensity and gemminess. This is older material from the Hotazel Mine from the 1960s or early 70s, predating the famous finds at the N'Chwaning I Mine in the late 1970s. The back has been sawed to remove manganite ore matrix and enhance the display quality by positioning the crystals more centrally. Valued at $2500 for size, richness and red color.