large Baryte

Item Description

Impressive, large, sharp and very shapely, equant, 360-degree baryte crystal from this less well-known French locale, that has produced some fine gemmy baryte specimens. Much of the highly lustrous, glassy, honey-brown crystal is water-clear gem with the rest being translucent. Portions of the crystal are doubly terminated and the form, itself, is remarkable. Modest termination and edge wear are noted, but this remains a stellar large example from the locale with exotic form. This striking crystal has a GLORIOUS golden-amber glow, when back lit! 995 grams, nearly a kilo, or 2.2 pounds mass. Choice and uncommon large baryte from the Paul Zerfass collection No. 887. Zerfass had one of the most important collections specializing in French location pieces, many of which he collected himself, including this huge and important specimen. We do not see much on the market to compare it to, so it is hard to value.