Sphalerite (rare yellow crystals)

Huanggang Fe-Sn deposit, Hexigten Banner, Chifeng Prefecture, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
Thumbnail, 3.1 x 2.7 x 1.9 cm
Start Time: 01/08/2015 6:45:00 pm (CST)
End Time: 01/15/2015 6:46:18 pm (CST)
Auction Closed

Item Description

Of all the colors of Sphalerite in the world, yellow is rare, especially in larger gem quality crystals. The new specimens coming out of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have given collectors some really special and unique Sphalerites. For such a common species, you don't see a lot of colorful material out there. Obviously Spain is well known for its brightly colored gem crystals, and various other small occurrence are around the world, but this particular color of Sphalerite certainly stands out in my mind. This piece is a loose group of HIGHLY modified complex crystals ofgemmy yellow Sphalerite with Arsenopyrite on matrix. I looked it over with a loupe, and despite what the photos might indicate, it's actually in good shape and very fun to view up close. The modifications on each faces are really interesting. When backlit, the color really comes out, and the center section appears to be WATER CLEAR. You just don't see Sphalerite like this from any locality, and from what I've seen, these have been very limited. This one should be appreciated for the fact that not only is it a TRANSPARENT SULFIDE, but it's brightly colored. Don't miss out, we don't have another to offer right now.

Did You Know We Offer Custom Bases?

Learn More