Ludwigite (rare borate) w/ Pyrite ex Bonisoli Coll.

Item Description

A dramatic and sculptural two-sided wedge of ludwigite. Ludwigite is a relatively rare magnesium iron oxy-borate that occurs in very thin, fibrous, metallic crystals, and sometimes as inclusions in other minerals such as forsterite (peridot). Striking diverging sprays of layered "needle"-like crystals of ludwigite have a beautiful, chatoyant, silky luster and silvery metallic appearance. Bright brassy pyrite microcrystals are a fine accent on both sides. The piece is from this classic and well-known Italian locality, an iron mine. Ex Bonsoli Collection.