Sphalerite (rough and cut set)

Item Description

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Sphalerite is known from thousands of localities around the world, but the vast majority of that material is opaque. The crystals (and rough) from the Las Manforas Mine in Spain are among the most famous examples of GEM QUALITY Sphalerite in the world. This locality has produced literally tons of some of the most colorful (and often MULTI-colored) transparent crystallized Sphalerite ever seen. Unlike the gem quality Sphalerite from Bulgaria, the gem Sphalerite from Las Manforas (often seen labeled as Picos de Europa or "Santander"), is often a brighter vivid color. Here we have a wonderful "rough and cut" set featuring a crystallized specimen and a polished slice of this beloved material. The specimen is a wonderful small cabinet measuring 8.8 x 6.2 x 4.7 cm and is loaded with fine quality, robust, large, sharp, lustrous, well-formed crystals associated with snow white pearly Dolomite rhombs. When backlit, the piece lights up with intense red and orange hues. For all you Harry Potter fans, the piece is quite similar in shape and color to the Sorcerer's (Philosopher's) Stone. The specimen is accompanied by a large polished slice of Sphalerite measuring a whopping 15.1 x 7.1 x 1.1 cm and weighing in a 414 grams. The mix of colors in the slab runs from a light greenish-yellow to golden, orange, amber, red and almost burgundy hues. Can you imagine the size of the crystal from which this slab was cut!? It should be noted that the specimen in this set has a few rough spots where it was contacted (most likely during the mining process), so it's not 100% pristine, but there are still several excellent crystals that can be seen all over. I should stress that the exterior luster of the Sphalerite crystals on the specimen is VERY good, not only for this locality, but anywhere in the world. Very attractive and eye-catching, and even though its contacted on the back, it displays amazingly well and really draws one's attention. How many sulfides in the world are not only transparent, but with INTENSE color like this ?? It is virtually impossible to get your hands on a fine crystallized specimen, let alone a large polished slice of this material, so if you're a fan of Sphalerite, gem minerals or Spanish material, do not pass up this great opportunity to get your hands on these beautiful classic pieces. The set is valued at $4,500 together.