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Schorl, Cleavelandite, Apatite & Quartz
- Shigar Valley, Skardu District, Baltistan, Northern Areas, Pakistan
- Cabinet, 9.6 x 7.7 x 7.2 cm
- Start Time: 01/20/2009 8:00:00 pm (CST)
- End Time: 01/27/2009 7:30:53 pm (CST)
- Auction Closed
Item Description
We have all seen many schorls around the block, from this part of the world. However, I think the best combination is when they are sharp and lustrous, and ensconced in a nest of the glistening white bladed cleavelandite as you see here. The contrast is just striking! Additionally, this piece has associated minerals for accent - a 1 inch or so pink apatite near the base, and a gem quartz crystal as well. The schorl termination is complete and PRISTINE, with incredible luster. I am not exaggerating. I have sene and handled many of these and this piece, for quality, ranks highly...the luster is far above the typical (already quite good) norm. the fact that it has the aesthetic associations of several species balancing the black schorl out, makes this piece stand out from the crowd. This is a schorl good enough for ANY sophisticated collector, even the most persnickety. It is good enough I can see it at a higher price on other shelves, and not bt an eye. I value it highly, at $3-4000, but obtained it in a large lot I can amortise to justify risking this at auction. Mined in early 2008. 557 grams mass