Olmiite (TL) with Calcite on mangnanese ore

Item Description

Outstanding and large, this small cabinet specimen consists of a dozen or so spherical clusters of Olmiite that are highly lustrous and intensely sparkly. These translucent to gemmy crystals have a coppery-tan color, and the largest of the spheres is about 1.8 cm across. One or two on matrix would make this a fine specimen, but all these clusters, equal in quality and intermingled with dozens of gemmy Calcite crystals, makes this an exemplary piece. From the famous N'chwaning II Mine, which is also the Type Locality for Olmiite. This is an older specimen from over 10 years ago now, I would guess. At one time, they fetched a premium and I paid a lot for such large plates! then, sadly, too many came out. so, yes, there was a lot on the market - but nevertheless, this is a big piece, and sparkly, and very good! Still worth $1000-2000 today, though I surely paid more at the time.