SM24-051
Neptunite on Natrolite
California State Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, San Benito Co., California, USA
Small Cabinet, 9.6 x 7.2 x 4.0 cm
$7,500.00 Payment Plan Available
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A significant and large display plate of neptunite, nicely contrasted against natrolite matrix and from the best locality in the world for this gorgeous jet black species of titanium mineral (yes! titanium!). Specimens of this size and quality are nearly unattainable and we treasure them, buying them only in old collections as we can. Here, we have a large plate with the black on white contrast, but also important crystal sizes as the doubly-terminated crystal is nearly 2 inches across (4.7 cm) and then the two "devil's horns" sticking up are each 2 cm tall, about 1 cm wide, and dramatic. Secondary crystals abound - another doubly-terminated crystal is 3 cm. We seldom see such richly crystallized specimens in this size range, and with large crystals as well. Even in the heyday of this mine, they were rare. Shockingly, the piece is free of damage or repairs. It is therefore a significant display sized and museum quality specimen from old finds, doubtful to be found in this quality here ever again. Lastly, the deposit is unique in the world, a geological absurdity and rarity not expected to be seen again. It is nearly mined out after a century of exploration and exploitation.