significant Calcite with Hematite ex. Halpern Collection

Item Description

This large cabinet "Red Calcite" from the famous Tsumeb mine is imposing not only for its significant size, but itsdramatic appearance as well. The Calcite started with a radial growth, and it ended in a near-rosette cluster composed of these highly flattened rhombs. These Calcites then have stepped-growth terminations that are almost saw-toothed in nature. On top of that, the Hematite coloration is rich and uniform, and the excellent luster highlights this vivid, brick-red coloration. These flattened rhombs reach up to an impressive 6 cm across. Previously in the Clifford J. Krueger collection, this is an unusual and high-quality Tsumeb Calcite of a very rare style. They are thought to have been found in the 1960s or before, and are seldom seen in cabinet size. The condition is nearly pristine, shocking in a piece of this size. It is one of the best examples of this material I have seen recently, or at all, even comparing to some specimens priced at $5000-10k in the past by notable specialist dealers in Tsumeb. The value of a piece like this, on the normal market, should easily be over $5000. Jack passed it on to me at a very old value, as it came from the Krueger collection. Cliff Krueger was a dear mentor and friend to Jack, and Jack had his choice when the collection passed on to the market to select such specimens.