Hubeite (TYPE LOCALITY) on Calcite

Item Description

An attractive and seldom seen specimen of the very rare calcium manganese silicate, Hubeite, this is from the TYPE LOCALITY of the Fengjiashan Mine and from the type finds that first came to market in the time (late 1990s) marketed as unknowns and maybe some kind of zeolite before being identified as a new species. Clove-brown and lustrous Hubeite crystals are grouped in clusters, which range to just over 1 cm across. For Hubeite, the clusters are particularly large and distinct, which adds greatly to the aesthetics. Specimens are very uncommon today, and it is especially nice when you find one in which the Hubeites are displayed so nicely across the matrix, which in this case is Calcite. This is a choice combination specimen from the Fengjiashan Mine (Daye Mine), which is the only known locality for the species. In China, these sell for their weight in gold, as they are highly desired by collectors of native minerals. Valued $1000-plus. From our special collection sale, direct to auction, of choice material from the collection of Richard Rossi, East Coast collector and Mineralogical Record Fellow.