Vanadinite (classic locality specimen)

Item Description

The Apex Mine (erroneously labeled as the San Carlos Mine for years) produced what are inarguably the best and most well-known Vanadinites from Mexico. The diversity of the specimens ranges quite a bit with various styles and colors of crystals. This particular piece is one of the most distinctive examples we've had to offer in the auctions, as the crystals range from an almost flame red hue to more muted orange and tan shades, all the way to a golden brown color in areas. The morphology also varies from distinctly hexagonal prisms (most of which show defined skeletal or "hoppered" growth) to beautifully flowing semi-parallel aggregates that almost resemble some kind or organic life, like a plant or coral. I had a lot of fun looking at this one with a loupe, as ever side provides a new and different viewing experience. Small gemmy colorless Calcite crystals can be seen scattered about for a nice touch. The piece is largely undamaged, though there are a few scars where it was separated from the pocket wall. It's one of those pieces that might not look like much at first glance, but once you get up close, there's plenty to see. A really cool and desirable piece for any fan of secondary ore minerals, minerals of the Apatite group, or specimens from Mexico. Valued $1,500.
From the collection of Robert (Bob) Reynolds. Bob was a well-known fossil and mineral expert and former Curator of Earth Sciences at the San Bernardino County Museum in California. The rare phyllomanganate-chromate species Reynoldsite was named in his honor in 2011.