RWP23-03
Pyromorphite
Friedrichssegen Mine, Lahnstein, Rhein-Lahn-Kreis, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
Small Cabinet, 6.3 x 3.2 x 1.8 cm
Ex. Gamini Ratnavira
$6,000.00 Payment Plan Available
Order Now
A large, important example of the classic pyromorphite specimen style that came out in the 1800s (and earlier) from this old German mining district. Such specimens, in this condition, are almost impossible to come by and only show up in very old collections as they recycle to market. You are more likely to see one in a book from the 1800s than in person, of this quality. This fanspray of thick crystals is complete all around, front and back. It has an exceptionally good luster and a rich color on the front. The back is complete but seems to have a thin coating of secondary growth that dulls the back side, although that may be a coating which could be removed in a lab. It is currently in original condition, cleaned only with water and not the fancy chemistry sometimes used on old pieces to make them too sparkly and bright. Specimens in this condition, almost totally pristine at this size, are so few and far between, making this significant for the size. Includes original watercolor painting by Gamini Ratnavira, as shown in 6x6 inch custom frame (he used to do commission paintings for mineral collectors in Southern California primarily, and charged $500-750 per painting).