Weird large Pitticite and Jarosite stalactite (RARE Bolivia) Lemanski Coll.

Item Description

Bizarre looking and VERY RARE large combination stalactite from this less well-known Bolivia tungsten-tin mine. The striking knobby layered colorful stalactite is composed of concentrically-banded Pitticite and Jarosite from a cave left by the decomposition of a large Arsenopyrite vein. Pitticite, yellow to yellow-brown, is an amorphous Fe3+ hydrous arsenate sulphate of questionable validity. The chemical composition appears to be variable (MINDAT). JAROSITE, rust-red, is an anhydrous K-Fe-sulfate. Both species are listed in the MINDAT locality, but there are no examples in the Photo Gallery. The contacted tip and broken end reveals the concentric growth banding and the open and filled holes where the precipitating fluids flowed, adding even more character. This is certainly one of the rarest, most exotic and bizarre looking large stalactites we have offered at auction from any locality. Ex Chet Lemanski Collection and acquired from Petrov Rare Minerals (Bolivia specialists). Possibly a UNIQUE combination stalactite from the locale. Never seen another....