Historically, the finest chalcocites came either from Cornwall in England or from Bristol in the USA - but this was before or during the Civil War years and almost nothing of note turns up today except when old collections are recycled. Growing up in the Midwest, and seeing collections there, I realized early how rare and amazing the old American chalcocites were - and how few actually exist today. This is perhaps the finest Bristol thumbnail I have seen - at least, that I recall seeing. It is a shockingly complete 360 degree specimen that dominates almost any other example of the species if put in a competition case. This chalcocite specimen is highlighted by the largest crystal, measuring 2.8 cm in length, and as a bonus it is doubly-terminated! This crystal exhibits a matte luster with minor iridescence and a gunmetal gray color. This superb thumbnail is actually a floater. It is shocking for what it is. In person, it has a mass and heft to it, that is solid and robust - and stands out compared to modern examples, as well.