Unusual Smoky Quartz (Bonisoli Coll.)

Item Description

One usually thinks of Switzerland or France for fine Alpine smoky quartz specimens. Here is a definite exception with a striking, very aesthetic, CABINET cluster from near Monte Bianco. The complete all-around compound crystal is water-clear and has fine light smoky color. Many of the complex termination faces and crystals sides are etched from chlorite, that has since been dissoloved away and giving a striking, intensely sparkly appearance. Very interestingly, other faces on the sides and back are totally untouched by chlorite and etching and are water-clear. Nearly pristine, with only very trivial termination and side wear. Material from this less well-known Italian locality is seldom on the market and this is an outstanding example. Ex Bonisoli Collection. 462 grams or just over a pound. A dramatic and fine smoky quartz.