TUC12-570
Fluorite and Calcite
Shangbao Mine, Leiyang County, Hunan Province, China
Cabinet, 13.4 x 7.2 x 5.5 cm
Ex. Dr. Stephen Smale
SOLD
A superb specimen from the noted China collection of Dr. Steve Smale, this piece has balance and contrast. It is pristine and complete all around with crystallized calcite on the backside as well as the front. The finely isolated fluorite crystals measure to 4 cm and show amazingly intricate effects of oriented growth patterning in both color (purple zones) and in form (flat vs. stepped faces). The piece is simple in geometry but mesmerizing in complexity. This was probably found in the mid-2000s. For its combination of qualities, I rate it very HIGHLY. Joe Budd Photos.