Wurtzite (fine quality and color)

Merelani Hills, Lelatema Mountains, Simanjiro District, Manyara Region, Tanzania
Thumbnail, 2.6 x 2.4 x 0.8 cm
Start Time: 12/17/2020 8:45:00 pm (CST)
End Time: 12/29/2020 6:30:00 pm (CST)
Auction Closed
Winning Bid: $249

Item Description

These specimens were mined in 2012 and hit the market in 2013, making a big splash. These are not only large for the species, but the have an fantastic fiery rich orange-red hue, never before seen in crystals this size. Typically gem quality Wurtzites are microscopic or only a few mm, but this particular specimen measures nearly a full inch and shows fantastic internal color when backlit. The piece displays classic, textbook hexagonal crystal form with sharp, well-formed faces. It's crystallized on the front and back, and shows a metallic "sheen" on the surface in reflected light. As you can see, it's actually gemmy when backlit, which is significant considering it's 8 mm thick. It's safe to say that these are the finest examples of the species extant. Truly impressive as there are not that many gem quality sulfides out there, especially in crystals this size. Priced in the inventory at $1,400. Specimen weight is 61.89 carats.

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Bidding History

Bid Amount Bid Time
$249 12/18/2020 1:03:21 am (CST)