Fluorite (near "floater" hollow cube corner) (ex Ross Lille Collection)

Minerva Mine #1, Ozark-Mahoning Group, Hardin County, Illinois
Small Cabinet, 8.8 x 8.7 x 8.3 cm
Start Time: 05/23/2019 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 05/30/2019 6:48:38 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

A really unusual Fluorite specimen from the famous Minerva #1 Mine. This would ordinarily be a single large cube of gemmy "phantom" Fluorite, but this one is really unique and special as it is actually a hollow cube corner of Fluorite. The crystal is not only remarkable for its interesting and rarely seen form, but it's actually crystallized all the way around! Both the front and back / underside of the piece show defined cubic crystal faces, and the edges where it broke apart from its original point of growth are all recrystallized (rehealed). The edges are notably thick despite the fact that there is a perfectly formed cubic hollow cavity in the center. I have to believe that it partially formed on top of an earlier generation of Fluorite which was separated during its growth and was able to complete its crystallization while it was free "floating" in the pocket. The crystal is not only gemmy but shows beautiful multicolor "phantom" zoning with a wonderful mix of blues and purples. Additionally there is a very thin layer of golden-brown hydrocarbon to give the piece a great contrast between the cool and warm hues. The piece is in great shape overall, but there are a few nicks here and there, so it's not 100% pristine, but it's still in good condition all around, and I honestly don't remember seeing anything quite like this from southern Illinois. If the piece were completely damage free, I could see it retailing for $3,500, but because of the damage we're listing it for a the low $249 starting bid. A great opportunity to pick up a special and eye-catching Fluorite from this world-famous specimens producing locality for a great price! Ex Ross Lillie collection (#RCL1517). Specimen weigh is 698 grams.

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