Stephanite (rare matrix specimen)

Item Description

Fresnillo is one of the great silver producers in the history of Mexico, along with being a source of some of the most famous and important specimens of various silver sulfides and sulfosalts. While minerals like Pyrargyrite and Polybasite are the big hitters from Fresnillo, some of the best Stephanites found came form this area. I would say it's quite difficult to get your hands on good specimens of Stephanite from Fresnillo these days. This piece is not only a find quality small cabinet display specimen of Stephanite, but its value lies in the fact that it's a rarely seen MATRIX specimen with multiple crystals! There are many sharp, lustrous, well-formed, silvery-black colored, prismatic Stephanite crystals measuring up to 1.2 cm long beautifully sitting atop a piece of silver ore matrix. The surface of the crystals show a mix of good metallic reflections, along with attractive striations, and even what appears to be minor skeletal growths. The crystals seem to be somewhat "stacked" in areas, giving them great three-dimensional depth and beauty. Very little damage whatsoever, as nearly every crystal is complete after looking closely with a loupe. A really attractive and excellent quality specimen of this classic and highly sought after material. Priced in the inventory at $1,800.