MAU-14
Gold
Santa Elena, Bolivar State, Venezuela
Thumbnail, 2.8 x 2 x 0.6 cm
Ex. University of Arizona Mineral Museum
SOLD
This is a brilliant, intergrown jackstraw cluster of sharp, elongated gold crystals (mostly spinel-law twin). While single crystals from here are quite well known, such large and elegant clusters as this are uncommon. Some people say these golds are palladium rich at this locality, though we have not analyzed the piece. Certainly, the patina and color is distinct. Although it only masses 12 grams, it looks a lot bigger and so you get a surprisingly large display volume for the cost, considering this is made up of 100% crystallized gold. From the collection of Hubert De Monmonier (1919-2007), donated by bequest to the University of Arizona Museum to add to their displays and to provide specimens for sale (to establish an endowment fund for museum operations, in perpetuity). Complete all around, and 11.5 grams.