Smithsonite pseudomorph after Calcite (fine old classic)

Item Description

An excellent old-time specimen dating back to the 19th century from the Mineral Point area in Wisconsin. We've had a few of these over the years, and this one is certainly one of the better examples. Its value is heightened due to its provenance as there are labels from the private collections of Herb Obodda, Larry Conklin (stating the piece was part of the famous Clarence Bement collection) along with a label from the American Museum of Natural History in New York (where Bement's collection was donated after his death). The dark golden colored Smithsonite has formed beautiful and well-defined pseudomorphs after scalenohedral Calcite, all on a firm Limonite matrix. The largest crystal measures 2.6 cm long. Very little damage, the piece is in great shape overall and display quite well as you can see. . A rare, cabinet sized classic from this old locality and the well-documented history makes it quite desirable. Valued $1,500.
From the collection of George Elling, a prominent East Coast collector.