Hubnerite (new find!)

Item Description

The Himalaya mine in Bolivia lies on the great mountain peak of Cerro Illimani (pronounced ee-yee-MAHN-ee) just outside of the capital city of La Paz. This great mountain is over 16,000 feet tall, and gets its name from an Aimara word mean "golden eagle". The fact that there are mines on this mountain is incredible considering the elevation and treacherous conditions. Recently, (July of 2009) there was a new find of Hubnerite from this famous mine. This is confirmed Hubnerite, and not Ferberite. There are a few minor spots on the side of the specimen where if one were to shine a very bright light, they will see small red reflections which is proof to the presence of manganese in the crystals. This specimen is a wonderful, layered, prismatic crystal group with a sharp termination and good luster. The piece is contacted on one side, but is in good shape overall. This is one of the few specimens of this material that I have had to offer in the auctions, and it is certainly very rare to see on the market. Don't miss out on this lovely display specimen from this great Bolivian locality.