Fluorite (gemmy "phantom" cubes) with Arsenopyrite (ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection)

Item Description

Like many mines in China, the Yaogangxian Mine has produced some superb quality Fluorites. This piece is an older specimen, probably dating back nearly 15 years (early 2000s) featuring an intergrown group of fine quality, sharp, cubic crystals of Fluorite - largest measuring up to 3.0 cm on edge. The two best aspects of the Fluorite crystals are the intense beautiful blue-green and purple color, and the fact that they are INCREDIBLY gemmy, with distinct internal "phantoms". To find such good sized, robust, richly colored crystals with such an alluring strong hue is rare from China. Additionally, associated fine quality, rather lustrous, sharp, well-formed silvery colored crystals of Arsenopyrite can be seen on the front for a great accent. Overall, there is virtually no damage that I can see on the display side, save a small spot on the bottom cornere where the piece was removed from the pocket wall. This is a classic, and really good quality for what it is, so if you collect Chinese minerals or worldwide Fluorites, don't miss out on this attractive colorful display specimen. Valued at $1,500. Ex Dr. Stephen Smale Collection. Along with amassing one of the finest private mineral collections in the world, Steve is a renowned mathematician. His accomplishments include being awarded the Fields Medal in 1966 along with being the awarded the Wolf Prize in mathematics in 2007. You can read Steve's bio on the Mineralogical Record website ( https://mineralogicalrecord.com/labels.asp?colid=671&page=1 ) or on Wikipedia.