A cherry-red, translucent rhomb of rhodochrosite is the center of this superb, display-quality miniature, which is both aesthetic and significant for the size and price range. The crystal is 4 cm across, and the associated hubnerite is 1.6 cm long. The rhodochrosite is complete all around, 360 degrees, and shows sharp stepped growth which is rather unusual in rhodo crystals of this size from Sweet Home. The result equates to more faces, and more reflections. The whole crystal is translucent and glows when backlit. Moreover, the edges are actually see-through gemmy. For balance, color, size, it would be very hard to find a miniature as choice and special as this one, in the price range. Most specimens sold today are simply mediocre miniatures, just an "example" of a rhodo. This piece, I have always felt was special. It was formerly in the private collection of a retired mineral dealer. Joe Budd photos.