T06-148
Twinned Fluorite (3+ Kilos!)
Boltsburn Mine, Rookhope, Weardale, County Durham, England
Large Cabinet, 18.1 x 14.3 x 13.3 cm
SOLD
This is another monster crystal for the update, weighing in at 6.8 pounds or just over 3 kilos! These massive large crystals were found, I am told, in the 1930s. Many are attributed to Sir Arthur Russell though its hard toknow if this was one of his pieces. It is composed of two brilliantly lustrous, deep purple, penetration-twinned crystals to 10.5 cm on edge. The luster is like glass, and the color is as deep and rich as you could want for the locality. They also fluoresce like a banshee (see upper-right pic). Of course, given the size and age, some damage is expected but honestly its just minute edge wear, which I am OK with in context. I have only once before seen so massive a crystal from the mine for sale, and it cost a lot more money, so I regard this as a pretty good deal I am passing on. It comes from a well-known collection (info on purchase).