Boracite (rare in matrix)

Eime, near Hanover, lower Saxony, Germany
Thumbnail, 2.1 x 1.6 x 1.4 cm
Start Time: 04/04/2009 8:00:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 04/14/2009 8:02:05 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

Boracite is a RARE borate found in evaporite deposits. This lustrous, sharp, many-faced, 1.0 cm, pastel-green crystal is nicely set on matrix and comes from THE classic and historic locality near Hanover. Ex. George Elling Collection. Sharp, textbook crystals of this quality are very rare but sometimes seen in old collections, prized for their incredible symmetry. Most old collections I get, assembled prior to 1950 or so, have a few of these in a vial for general interest. However, the average size is sub-centimeter and crystals of THIS size are uncommon. Out of matrix, I have seen them priced from $4-500 up to $1500 depending on who has it and which currency. Most top thumbnail collections are also a good place to find one - but they are NOT common and seldom does a matrix specimen turn up. In fact, this piece is one of the finer matrix specimens I have handled (now, twice, small world that it is) and is fairly memorable. Valued $950-1250

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