Phosphophyllite (new find !) Back to Collection Liquidation Auctions - end Feb 25 - Part II

• Starting Time:2/18/2010 06:45:00 PM(CST)
• Ending Time:2/25/2010 06:45:00 PM(CST)

• Time Left:Auction Is Closed

• Size:Miniature
• Size Description:3.5 x 3.4 x 2.1 cm

Description:Phosphophyllite is one of the most rare and beautiful species in the entire mineral world, and arguably, the most beautiful phosphate species extant. It is not only highly sought after, but in recent years has been dubbed the "Holy Grail" of mineral species by dealers and collectors. Many collectors and dealers alike treasure this species for its immense scarcity and immeasurable combination of form and unique color. This specimen is from a brand new find for the species in the Machacamarca mining district in Bolivia. It is not from the typical locality at the Unificada mine in Potosi. It features dozens if not hundreds of exceptionally rare, iron-coated, light green color, euhedral "butterfly"-twinned crystals measuring up to 10 mm of this great phosphate on matrix. It goes without saying that specimens of Phosphophyllite this size are exceptionally pricey in some cases. I have seen pieces in this size range offered at over $10,000, although this piece is not of the same calibre. It is however a very rich specimen from a very exciting new find, which hopefully could one day produce specimens of the same size and quality as those from Unificada ! Please note that specimens of Phosphophyllite simply are NOT seen in today''s market, in ANY format. Do not miss out on this piece as very few seem to have been found.